A Call To Watchfulness

A CALL TO WATCHFULNESS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Mark 13:33-37

Supporting Texts: Matthew 24:42-44, Luke 21:34-36, 1 Peter 5:8, Revelation 16:15

INTRODUCTION:

The Bible repeatedly warns believers to be watchful and alert as the end times approach. Jesus, in His Olivet Discourse, emphasises the importance of spiritual vigilance because no one knows the exact time of His return. Watchfulness is more than physical alertness; it is an attitude of the heart and spirit—being ready, faithful, and sober in all seasons.

This call to watchfulness is urgent in our present age of distractions, temptations, and spiritual deception. Without alertness, believers can easily drift into complacency, lose focus, or become overwhelmed by the cares of life. Jesus encourages us to stay awake, pray, and keep our hearts aligned with God’s purposes until He comes.

Today’s message challenges us to examine our spiritual state, embrace watchfulness as a lifestyle, and prepare ourselves fully for the coming of the Lord. Let us discover how to live each day ready and expectant, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

1. THE IMPORTANCE OF SPIRITUAL ALERTNESS

a) Stay Awake in Spirit and Mind (Mark 13:33):

Jesus commands us to be awake, not sleeping spiritually, because danger can come unexpectedly. Spiritual alertness protects us from falling into sin or deception.

b) Be Sober and Self-Controlled (1 Peter 5:8):

A sober mind resists temptation and stands firm against the devil’s schemes. Watchfulness requires self-discipline and prayerful dependence on God.

c) Recognise the Signs of the Times (Matthew 24:42-44):

Knowing what is happening around us helps prepare us to respond rightly and keep our faith unshaken.

d) Avoid Spiritual Complacency (Luke 21:34):

Carelessness, worry, and indulgence dull our senses and can cause us to miss the Lord’s return.

Biblical Example: Noah’s family stayed vigilant and prepared during the days leading up to the flood, while the world ignored the warning and perished (Genesis 6:13-22).

Spiritual alertness is essential for surviving and thriving in the last days, keeping us ready for the Lord’s sudden appearance.

2. THE CALL TO PRAYERFUL WATCHING

a) Watch and Pray Continuously (Mark 13:33-34):

Jesus pairs watchfulness with prayer, showing that vigilance without communion with God is insufficient. Prayer strengthens and sustains our spiritual alertness.

b) Pray for Strength to Endure (Luke 21:36):

Prayer equips us to withstand trials, temptations, and the pressures of life’s challenges.

c) Intercede for Others (1 Timothy 2:1-2):

Prayer is also a way to watch over others spiritually, lifting them up and building the church in readiness.

d) Guard Against Discouragement (Nehemiah 4:9):

Persistent prayer keeps our hope alive even when facing opposition or spiritual attack.

Biblical Example: Jesus Himself prayed fervently while in the Garden of Gethsemane, demonstrating watchful dependence on the Father (Luke 22:39-46).

Prayerful watchfulness empowers us to overcome spiritual lethargy and to be alert for God’s timing.

3. THE REWARD OF BEING WATCHFUL

a) Preparedness Leads to Blessing (Matthew 25:1-13):

The parable of the ten virgins shows that those who stay ready are rewarded with entry into the kingdom of heaven.

b) Peace of Mind in Uncertainty (Philippians 4:6-7):

Watchfulness rooted in faith grants us God’s peace, which guards our hearts and minds.

c) Confidence to Meet the Lord (2 Timothy 4:8):

Those who watch faithfully will stand confidently before Christ at His return.

d) A Life Full of Purpose (Ephesians 5:15-16):

Being watchful helps us make wise use of our time and live purposefully according to God’s will.

Biblical Example: The faithful servants in Jesus’ parable were commended and rewarded for their diligence and readiness (Luke 12:35-40).

The blessing of watchfulness is both eternal and practical—peace now and reward later.

CONCLUSION:

Living a life of watchfulness is not optional for the believer—it is a vital spiritual discipline that keeps us aligned with God’s timing and purposes. As Jesus said, we do not know the day or hour of His return, so we must stay vigilant, prayerful, and ready at all times.

Let us commit to reject spiritual complacency, cultivate continuous prayer, and live each day with the expectancy of meeting our Lord. When we are watchful, we not only protect ourselves from harm but also become beacons of hope and faith in a dark world. Remember, your preparedness will determine your reward when He comes.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, open my eyes to be spiritually alert every day.

2. Father, help me to stay sober and self-controlled in all situations.

3. Teach me to recognise the signs of the times with wisdom.

4. Deliver me from spiritual complacency and carelessness.

5. Strengthen me through prayer to endure until the end.

6. Help me to intercede for others faithfully.

7. Fill me with peace as I wait on You.

8. Give me confidence to meet You without fear.

9. Guide my steps to live purposefully and wisely.

10. Make me a faithful watchman for Your kingdom.