Gain Control

Our flesh is weak. Oh, we have good intentions but those can be changed in a moment. Over sleeping, running late, kids fighting, spilled coffee, a button off the shirt you planned to wear and all things change. The disciples showed their weakness when they slept through a life and death situation. Jesus was in the garden praying before his crucifixion. He had asked the disciples to pray too. Jesus told them his soul was overwhelmed or exceedingly sorrowful even to the point of death. He even warned them that the flesh was weak but when he returned he found them sleeping.

Jesus was agonizing over what he was going to face and the disciples slept. I like the way Asbury Bible Commentary puts it, “Jesus has taught his disciples that they must watch in the midst of their tribulations if they hope to remain faithful and obedient to the will of God. Now Jesus acts on his own advice. Jesus is able to remain obedient by being aware of the danger of yielding to temptation in face of tribulation and by depending on God (in prayer) for strength.”

He was setting an example for us in gaining control over the flesh just as he told the disciples in Matthew 26:41 (NIV), Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. Since our flesh is weak, it is imperative we rely on God for Spiritual Strength and gain control over the flesh. God will use the fast to help you gain control over the flesh. Jesus had to and did, how much more should we?

Walk in the Spirit and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. Galatians 5:16 (KJV)

Bible Reading: Matthew 26:26-46