Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Importance Vigilance, in a biblical context, refers to the state of being watchful and alert, particularly in spiritual matters. It involves a constant readiness to respond to spiritual challenges and temptations, maintaining a steadfast focus on God's will and purposes. Vigilance is crucial for Christians as it helps guard against spiritual complacency and the wiles of the enemy. Biblical References The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of vigilance. In 1 Peter 5:8, believers are admonished, "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." This verse underscores the necessity of being spiritually alert to resist the devil's schemes. Jesus Himself instructed His disciples to be vigilant. In Matthew 26:41, He said, "Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak." Here, vigilance is linked with prayer, highlighting the need for spiritual discipline to overcome human frailty. Vigilance in the Old Testament The concept of vigilance is also present in the Old Testament. Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life." This verse calls for a vigilant guarding of one's inner life, recognizing that the heart is the source of one's actions and attitudes. Nehemiah exemplified vigilance when rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. In Nehemiah 4:9, it is recorded, "But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat." Nehemiah's actions demonstrate the balance of prayer and practical vigilance in the face of opposition. Vigilance in the New Testament The New Testament continues to stress vigilance as a vital aspect of Christian living. In 1 Thessalonians 5:6, Paul writes, "So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober." This call to spiritual wakefulness is a reminder of the imminent return of Christ and the need to be prepared. The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 further illustrates the importance of vigilance. The wise virgins were prepared and watchful, while the foolish ones were not, resulting in their exclusion from the wedding feast. This parable serves as a warning to remain spiritually alert and ready for the Lord's coming. Practical Application Vigilance requires a proactive approach to spiritual life. It involves regular prayer, study of Scripture, and fellowship with other believers to remain spiritually sharp. Ephesians 6:18 encourages believers to "pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition. To this end, stay alert with all perseverance in your prayers for all the saints." Moreover, vigilance includes self-examination and accountability. Hebrews 3:12-13 warns, "See to it, brothers, that none of you has a wicked heart of unbelief that turns away from the living God. But exhort one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness." This passage highlights the role of community in maintaining vigilance against sin. Conclusion While vigilance is a personal responsibility, it is also a communal endeavor. Believers are called to support and encourage one another in their spiritual watchfulness, ensuring that they remain steadfast in their faith and ready for the return of Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) Watchfulness in respect of danger; care; caution; circumspection.2. (n.) The quality or state of being vigilant; forbearance of sleep; wakefulness. Greek 5442. phulasso -- to guard, watch ... 5442 (akin to 5441 , "a military guard") -- properly, preserve by "having an eye on" (J. Thayer), referring to the uninterrupted vigilance shepherds show in ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5442.htm - 9k Library Prayer and vigilance The Charge of the Pilgrim Priests An Unwalled City Prayer --Fills Man's Poverty with God's Riches March 2. "That Good Thing which was Committed unto Thee Keep by ... On the Fast of the Tenth Month. Eve and Mary Continued. The Service Common to Two or Many Hierarchs. The Preface From the Conference of 1773 to the Commencement of the War in 1776 Thesaurus Vigilance (1 Occurrence)... 3. (n.) Guard; watch. Multi-Version Concordance Vigilance (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 4:23 And keep watch over your heart with all care; so you will have life. ... /v/vigilance.htm - 6k Vigil (2 Occurrences) Vigilant (4 Occurrences) Watch (203 Occurrences) Mordecai (52 Occurrences) Alarmed (28 Occurrences) Alert (19 Occurrences) Alarm (26 Occurrences) Awake (83 Occurrences) Premillennial Resources What is the difference between envy and jealousy, biblically speaking? | GotQuestions.orgDo we need to be aware of the spiritual battle that is taking place around us? | GotQuestions.org How did the Fall affect humanity? | GotQuestions.org Vigilance: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Vigilance (1 Occurrence)Proverbs 4:23 Subtopics Related Terms |
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