2 Corinthians 6:5; In Watchings

2 Corinthians 6:5 In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;

“Watchings” literally means “sleeplessness”, that is, a keeping awake, having to maintain sleepless nights. It is a physical, mental challenge to keep awake when the body and mind are exhausted. William MacDonald observed well, “Sleeplessness describes his constant need for being on the alert against the wiles of the devil and the efforts of his enemies to harm him.” In the thick of mission work, he encountered much resistance. As such, he has to persist in prayer and on the lookout for the slightest sign of danger.

How draining it can be. And yet, the Lord sustained the Apostle Paul. It is not in vain that he watched. When Jesus asked His disciples to watch with him in the Garden of Gethsemane, their eye-lids were heavy till the enemy came. Peter responded in the flesh taking his sword to cut off the high priest’s servant’s ear. Jesus rebuked Peter, God’s kingdom is not won by violence.

May the Lord grant His grace to sustain His people in the work of the gospel. Amen.