THE DANGER OF SPIRITUAL SLUMBER: A CALL TO BE ALERT AND ACTIVE By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Revelation 3:2
"Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God."
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INTRODUCTION
In every generation, God seeks a people who are wholly devoted to Him, a people who remain spiritually vigilant and active in fulfilling His divine purpose. However, a spiritual disease has infiltrated many who claim to be God's people—a condition that renders them slothful, silly, stupid, and sleeping. This condition has led many to fall into spiritual complacency, rendering them ineffective in the work of the Lord.
This article seeks to examine the dangers of spiritual slumber and the consequences of deviating from God's commands. It will also provide insight into how believers can maintain their zeal, remain adaptable to God's direction, and stand boldly in righteousness. Through scriptural references and an understanding of God's expectations, we are called to wake up from spiritual dormancy and embrace the active service of His Kingdom.
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THE PLAGUE OF SPIRITUAL SLUMBER
Matthew 25:5
"While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept."
Many who claim to be followers of Christ have become spiritually lazy, consumed by the cares of this world, and have lost their first love. This plague of slumber is not accidental; it is a consequence of shifting focus from God to worldly desires. Like the foolish virgins in the parable of Matthew 25, many have allowed their spiritual lamps to run out of oil, leaving them unprepared for the coming of the Lord.
Spiritual slumber is characterized by complacency, lack of discernment, and an inability to move with the Holy Spirit. It weakens one's ability to stand firm in faith and makes one vulnerable to the enemy's deception.
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THE CONSEQUENCES OF NEGLECTING GOD'S COMMANDS
Deuteronomy 28:15
"But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee."
Throughout history, whenever God's people turned away from Him, the consequences were severe. The Israelites suffered captivity, famine, and destruction because they forsook the ways of the Lord. Today, the same principle applies: when believers neglect God's commands, they invite spiritual stagnation, bondage, and judgment.
God expects His people to be alive, alert, and active in His work. He calls His followers to reject spiritual infidelity and remain steadfast in faith. Those who refuse to wake up from their slumber will find themselves trapped in the same judgments that befell ancient Israel.
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CALL TO SPIRITUAL ALERTNESS
1 Peter 5:8
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."
To be effective in God's Kingdom, believers must remain spiritually alert. The enemy is constantly seeking to devour those who are not vigilant. Spiritual alertness requires daily communion with God, obedience to His Word, and an unwavering commitment to righteousness.
Being spiritually active means responding to the leading of the Holy Spirit, engaging in fervent prayer, and being willing to sacrifice personal comfort for the sake of God's will. Just as soldiers remain ever ready for battle, God's people must be prepared at all times to fight the good fight of faith.
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THE IMPORTANCE OF ADAPTABILITY IN GOD'S SERVICE
Isaiah 6:8
"Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me."
God is seeking individuals who are adaptable and willing to go wherever He sends them. The world is constantly mobilizing people for evil, yet many of God's people remain passive. Those who are adaptable to God's direction will always be at the forefront of His divine work.
Being adaptable means yielding completely to God's will, even when it requires personal sacrifice. It means trusting in God's provision and being ready to act upon His commands without hesitation.
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SUMMARY
Spiritual slumber is a deadly condition that has gripped many who claim to be God's people. It leads to complacency, stagnation, and ultimately, separation from God's purpose. The consequences of neglecting God's commands are severe, but those who choose to remain alert and active in His work will experience His divine protection and guidance.
God is calling His people to wake up, to be vigilant, and to remain adaptable to His leading. The battle for righteousness requires dedication, discipline, and unwavering faith.
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CONCLUSION
Now is not the time to be slothful, silly, stupid, or sleeping. Now is the time to rise up, shake off complacency, and actively engage in God's work. The world is in desperate need of true believers who will stand firm and boldly proclaim God's righteousness.
God is calling His people to abandon spiritual laziness and embrace the active service of His Kingdom. Those who remain steadfast will see His hand move mightily in their lives.
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CALL TO ACTION
Examine your spiritual state today. Are you spiritually awake and active, or have you fallen into slumber? Seek God's guidance, repent of any complacency, and commit to living a life that is fully surrendered to Him.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
God desires to use you for His divine purpose. Do not be weighed down by the cares of this life, but rather, fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. Be bold, be strong, and be willing to follow Him wherever He leads.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have not yet surrendered your life to Christ, now is the time. Say this prayer with sincerity:
"Heavenly Father, I come before You today, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, that He died for my sins, and that He rose again. Today, I accept Him as my Lord and Savior. Come into my heart, transform my life, and lead me in Your ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen."
If you have prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of God! Grow in your faith, and remain steadfast in His service.
