Matthew 26:41-42

TO STAND WHEN FLESH IS WEAK

‘The spirit … is willing.’

Matthew 26:41

Appreciate St. Peter’s willing and fervent spirit. In Christ’s presence brave; miscalculated powers for the conflict.

To stand when flesh is weak, we must—

I. Realise what we are.—Are we ‘willing’ ones on Christ’s side? Our position not that of enemies, or traitors, but are we wholly willing servants?

II. Realise the conflict.—The lower nature, ‘flesh,’ not to be yielded to. Take the decided line. Watch; pray; fight; no tampering with old sins. Get away from low levels.

III. Strengthen the spiritual nature. Use means of grace steadily.

IV. Look much at Jesus Christ.—He enables; He will keep those who depend on Him.

—The Rev. F. S. Legg.