“And because of the increase of lawlessness, the love of many will grow cold” (Matt. 24:12).
Danger of Neglect
We must be very careful about the cooling of neglect. If we neglect prayer, fasting, Bible reading, and worship, slowly our hearts will cool. Slowly our devotion to God will die.
This does not happen all at once. It is a process, a slow process that, the devil hopes, will go undetected. We don’t discern the devil’s work when he uses our own laziness against us.
The Enemy Within
The devil works best when he works undetected. Straight on assaults don’t work on seasoned warriors. They can defend against the enemy outside, it is the enemy within they must watch for.
The enemy within is the flesh. It is our fallen nature that seeks after the things of the self instead of the rings of God. It is forgetful, lazy, and comfort seeking. It hates discipline, fasting, and sacrifice for others
“Wake up and strengthen what remains and is on the point of death, for I have not found your works perfect in the sight of my God” (Rev. 3:2).
“Therefore be serious and discipline yourselves for the sake of your prayers” (1 Pet. 4:7).