³⁶ Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man.”

Living as Children of God

²⁸ And now, dear children, remain in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns, you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame.

⁸ Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.

¹³ “So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.

⁴² “So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming.

⁷ The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers.

Parable of the Persistent Widow

18 One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.

¹³ Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. ¹⁴ Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness.

¹³ Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous.^[a] Be strong.

³³ And since you don’t know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert^[a]!