October 23

"Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation." — Matthew 26:41.

HAVING noticed the danger to which we are exposed, viz., entering into temptation, let us now observe

THE MEANS OF ESCAPING IT. The way to avoid evil is to be found in the pursuit of good. The path of duty is the path of safety. Omissions make way for commissions, and the end of duty is the beginning of sin. There are two particular means here specified, whereby we may be prevented from entering into temptation. Let us look at them.

Watchfulness. Our Lord frequently enjoined this on his followers. It is one of the most important of Christian duties. There are three things implied in it. Apprehension of danger. This feeling must be cherished by the Christian who would not enter into temptation. We are least safe when we feel ourselves most secure. Activity in duty. A vigilant spirit is opposed to one of indolence. It is a lively and wakeful spirit, watching the first motions of the enemy, as David did when Saul cast a javelin at him, to slay him; he escaped the infuriated monarch, not by resistance, but by vigilance — 1 Peter 5:8. Suitableness of preparation. It is of no use watching the approach of the enemy, if we are not armed and ready to meet him. This must be done not in our own strength. Array yourselves in military panoply, and keep yourselves always in a military posture. "Put on the whole armor of God." How many have entered into temptation, being off their guard!

Prayer. This is never out of season, therefore we are enjoined to pray without ceasing. What must we pray for with regard to temptation? For preventing grace to keep us out of temptation. So we are taught in our Lord's prayer, "Lead us not into temptation;" that is, that God would not by his providence open a door of temptation to us. For comforting grace to support us in temptation. Paul prayed for deliverance from his trial; God answered it by insuring suitable relief in it, "My grace is sufficient." For delivering grace to bring us out of temptation. We must pray, not only that we may be rescued from it, but be the better for it; that when he has tried us we may come forth as gold, that his name may be glorified, our souls benefited, and his grace magnified.