“The insolent have dug pitfalls for me;
they do not live according to your law.” Psalm 119.85
Watchfulness. It’s one of the most under-valued disciplines of the Christian life. We must guard ourselves against the traps and snares of the world, against the deceptive dangers of sin and temptation.
In this verse, the psalmist laments the traps set for him by sinful men. He knows the world would like to see him fall into their pit—for him to lose his testimony of faithfulness, perhaps even lose his life. He knows this because the insolent do not live according to God’s law.
Friend, we cannot fool ourselves into thinking the evil forces of the world (those employed by the powers of spiritual darkness) take a neutral posture toward us. The world does not truly believe in a live-and-let-live philosophy. We are in a spiritual war, and the enemy wants to entrap us, wants to take our lives and our testimony. We know that because of the truth found in God’s Word. Let us commit ourselves to being watchful. Let us commit ourselves to guarding our life and doctrine with the truth of Scripture.
In what ways have you become lax in watchfulness? How have you been successful in faithfully guarding your purity of conduct and doctrine? Take some time to confess your sin and praise the Lord for how his word has strengthened you for the spiritual battles you face.
Heavenly Father, our great protector and defender, we praise you for your word. We praise you that you have given us your truth. Thank you for giving us all we need for life and godliness. Help us, dear Lord, to be watchful. Guide us in your truth—for the sake of your great name. Amen.