'Voices From The Past' Vol. 1 — March 30

Solomon tells us of some that lie down on the top of a mast in the midst of the sea (Prov. 23:34). This is an accurate picture of men who are overtaken by a false security at the brink of destruction. If any have ever done so, the disciples in the garden certainly did. Their master was just a little distance from them offering 'up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears' (Heb. 5:7), while they slept. He was beginning to taste the cup that was filled with the curse and wrath due to their sins. The Jews were nearby and armed for his and their destruction. Jesus had earlier informed them that this was the night of his coming betrayal and death. The disciples saw that Jesus was ‘sorrowful and troubled' (Matt. 26:37). He entreated them to tarry and watch with him. He was dying, and that for them. In this condition, as he left them for a little while, like men who had forsaken all their love toward him or care for themselves, they fell fast asleep. Even the best of saints being left to themselves will quickly appear to be less than men, to be nothing. All of our own strength is weakness, and all of our own wisdom is folly. Peter was one of those that fell asleep, and that soon after he has expressed such self-confidence that he would not forsake him even if all others did. Our Saviour said to Peter, 'Could you not watch with me one hour?' It is an amazing thing to consider that Peter should make so high a promise, and then immediately be so careless and remiss in the pursuit of it. We find, however, in our own hearts the same root of treachery abiding and working. It bears fruit in us every day. Jesus sought to stir them up to see their condition, their weakness, and danger. Ruin lay right at the door. They needed to rise, watch and pray.

Devotional Readings taken from Puritan Devotional Readings 'Voices From The Past Vol.1.'
John Owen, Works, VI:91-92
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