To me the key phrase in this section is “…don’t let that day catch you unaware, like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth.” When we believe in Jesus it does not give us a (I won’t get bothered by satan card) it says those temptations and trials will come and when they do, not if they do, will we be ready? Jesus gives us this warning to be ready and expect it to come; there is no excuse for believers to fall into the trap if we are constantly looking for it. This happens with prayer and reading and being diligent in the study of Christ so we can reflect His light.
Look what happens to one of Jesus twelve disciples after believing and being with Jesus for a few years. Luke chapter 22 verses 3-4, “Then satan entered into Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve disciples, and he went to the leading priest and captains of the Temple guard to discuss the best way to betray Jesus to them.” When Jesus says watch out! We must watch out. Jesus knows satan and how deceitful he is and none of us are strong enough to defend against him without being in Christ and constantly going to Him for our growth and strength.
We can’t be arrogant to believe that one prayer will keep us on the narrow road for life. Nothing can separate us from God’s love, but His love doesn’t mean we are on the narrow road. I really like this quote from Henri J.M. Nouwen which says, “Jesus tells us to set our hearts on the Kingdom. Setting our hearts on something involves not only serious aspiration but also strong determination. A spiritual life requires human effort.” Accept Jesus in your heart and know that satan will work hard to get you to be in the world. If we make choices that are of the world we will struggle with “that day” that will come to everyone. Amen