Title : Be on Guard: A Call to Spiritual Vigilance.

Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. Mark 13:33. NIV.

Devotion: The words of Jesus in Mark 13:33, serve as a stark reminder of the need for constant vigilance and preparedness in our spiritual lives. 

 The phrase "Be on guard!" is a clear call to be vigilant and watchful. It emphasizes the importance of staying alert and attentive, especially in a world filled with distractions especially social media and uncertainties due to financial issues and insecurity. Jesus is urging His followers to maintain a heightened sense of awareness, not just in their daily lives but in their spiritual journey as well. The bible captures this very well as we can see in 

1 Peter 5:8- "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."

  The Importance of Readiness cannot be underestimated and that is the reason 

Jesus warns that the exact time of significant events—whether it be the end times, personal trials, death or moments of divine intervention—is unknown. This uncertainty calls for a state of perpetual preparedness. Just as a soldier remains ready for battle, believers are to stay spiritually prepared for whatever may come. Jesus himself says in Matthew 24:42 - "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come."

This phrase "You do not know when that time will come" highlights the unpredictability of life's pivotal moments. It reminds us that the timing of events, whether joyous or challenging, is beyond our control. This uncertainty should not lead to fear but rather to a proactive stance of faith and readiness. Trusting in God's timing and sovereignty becomes essential. The bible aptly captured this in 

James 4:14 - "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." 

  The verse calls for spiritual vigilance. This means nurturing our relationship with God through prayer, studying His word, and living out His commandments. It is about being attuned to His guidance and promptings, ready to respond to His call at any moment. The bible says in Colossians 4:2 - "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful."

The verse is also a call to purposeful living. When we live with a sense of vigilance it means live with purpose. It encourages us to make the most of the time we have, to serve others, and to share the love of Christ. It is a call to be proactive in our faith, making a positive impact on those around us. This is emphasized in Ephesians 5:15-16 - "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."

In conclusion Mark 13:33 is a powerful reminder of the need to stay spiritually vigilant and prepared. It encourages us to live with awareness, readiness, and a sense of purpose, trusting in God's perfect timing. By embracing this call to vigilance, we can navigate life's uncertainties with confidence and faith. Let our motto be "BE PREPARED" (Boy's Scout)

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the call to be on guard and alert. Help us to embrace this call with a sense of purpose and readiness. Guide us to live each day with awareness and trust in Your timing. Strengthen our faith and keep us vigilant in our spiritual journey. In Jesus' name, Amen.

May this reflection guide you in your morning devotion, inspiring you to live each day with spiritual vigilance and purpose. Amen in Jesus' name. Hallelujah. 

©Dr Joel Olanrewaju, you can please share your thoughts and testimonies with me at gbemide09@gmail.com. Please do not hesitate to share this with your contacts. Cheers.