Too tired to remain awake

"He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” 40Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour?  41Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 42Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.”  43And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy. 44So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.  45Then He came to His disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners.  46Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”      Matthew 26:39-46   NKJV

It happens to us all. Sometimes we are so tired that we cannot keep our eyes open. We know that we should pray, after all, this is why we get up early for. However, tiredness rules. The disciples couldn't help sleeping and Jesus knew this. But, He was teaching them that there are important times that require our attention. And this was one of them. Jesus came into His humanity in Gethsemane and He needed some encouragement, rather like we do when we need a hug. 

Apart from going to the cross, this was probably one of the most difficult times for Jesus. He was in a spiritual battle and it became so intense that He actually sweat drops of blood (Luke 22:42-43) If there was ever a time when He needed some back up, it was then. The others were sleeping but God sent an angel to assist Him (Luke 22:43). Notice, that when we fail to act, God is always there with a plan B.

We need to pray as much as we can. Many people use the early mornings to do this and read their bible too. This is usually known as a quiet time. It is enriching for us to do this as it sets us up for the day, and it is less likely to come across interruptions or distractions. The devil though, knows how important this prayer time is. So he will do all he can to stop this from being successful. It takes time to avoid the tiredness and not everyone can do it. Therefore, they may have a quiet time later in the day or before going to bed. Everyone is different and allowances have to be made for this. One thing is for sure, whatever time you choose, Jesus will be waiting and looking forward to sharing this special time with you. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now
Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. In Jesus' Name. Amen
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