Chipmunks are watchful creatures. They are always aware of their environment and what is going on around them. They need to be. Their primary mode of self-defense is to
run away from a predator. In order to outrun a threat, chipmunks need to be alert. They need to be aware. They need to see what is coming after them as soon as possible so they will have time to run away and dive for cover in one of the holes leading to their burrow.
That is why I chose a chipmunk to illustrate Colossians 4:2 which says, “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” This verse tells us that we need to be watchful when we pray. Why is watchfulness necessary during prayer?
First, we need to be able to see and recognize God’s presence.
Second, we need to be able to see and recognize God’s voice.
Third, we need to be able to see and recognize God’s answers.
Fourth, we need to be able to see and recognize God’s instructions.
Fifth, we need to be able to see and recognize any moments when temptation, selfish desires, self-serving attitudes, or a demanding nature begins to slip into our conversations with God.
I hope you enjoy the chipmunk I drew (using colored pencils) for this Digi-Journal entry. Use him as a reminder to be watchful as you pray.
Related Verses:
Matthew 26:41 – “Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Mark 14:38 – “Keep watching and praying that you may not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
1 Peter 5:8 – “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”
Proverbs 4:23 – "Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.”
Matthew 7:15 – “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”
Matthew 24:4 & 5 – “And Jesus answered and said to them, ‘See to it that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying, “I am the Christ,” and will mislead many.’”
Mark 8:15 – “And He was giving orders to them, saying, ‘Watch out! Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.’”
Romans 16:17 – “Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them.”
1 Corinthians 16:13 – “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.”