Alive, Alert, Active, & Adaptable By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
Ephesians 5:15-16 (NKJV)
"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil."
Introduction
In every generation, God calls His people to remain alive, alert, active, and adaptable in their relationship with Him. Yet, many fall prey to spiritual complacency, becoming slothful, silly, and spiritually stagnant. This lesson examines how believers can avoid these pitfalls, maintain their first love for God, and remain vigilant in fulfilling His purposes.
1. The Deadly Disease of Complacency
When believers allow themselves to be consumed by worldly cares, they drift from God’s purposes. This spiritual disease leads to dullness, disobedience, and a lack of sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
Supportive Scripture:
Revelation 2:4-5 (NKJV)
"Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent."
2. The Call to Be Alive in Christ
Being alive in Christ requires maintaining a vibrant relationship with Him. This means prioritizing His presence, staying connected through prayer and worship, and rejecting the distractions that pull us away from His path.
Supportive Scripture:
John 10:10 (NKJV)
"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."
3. Staying Alert and Watchful
Spiritual alertness is crucial in these times of darkness and deception. Believers must remain vigilant, discerning the schemes of the enemy, and standing firm in faith.
Supportive Scripture:
1 Peter 5:8 (NKJV)
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour."
4. Being Active in Service
God calls His people to be actively engaged in His Kingdom work. Slothfulness and complacency disqualify believers from effective service. True discipleship demands discipline and a willingness to obey God’s commands.
Supportive Scripture:
James 1:22 (NKJV)
"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."
5. Adaptability: Moving with the Spirit
God’s plans often require adaptability and flexibility. Believers who are rigid and unwilling to move with the Spirit miss out on the fullness of God’s purposes.
Supportive Scripture:
Isaiah 43:19 (NKJV)
"Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
Summary
To fulfill God’s purposes, believers must remain alive, alert, active, and adaptable. This requires vigilance against spiritual complacency, a vibrant relationship with God, and a readiness to follow His Spirit’s leading.
Conclusion
The call to be alive, alert, active, and adaptable is a divine mandate for every believer. Those who ignore this call risk becoming spiritually stagnant and ineffective in God’s Kingdom. But those who embrace this call will find themselves empowered, disciplined, and ready for God’s service.
Action Points
- Examine Your Heart: Reflect on areas of your life where complacency may have crept in.
- Renew Your First Love: Dedicate time daily to reconnect with God through prayer and worship.
- Stay Spiritually Awake: Commit to studying the Word and remaining vigilant in your faith.
- Serve Actively: Look for opportunities to serve in your local church or community.
- Be Adaptable: Stay open to God’s plans, even when they challenge your comfort zone.
Final Word
As soldiers in God’s Kingdom, we are called to rise above the distractions and deceptions of this world. Let us remain alive, alert, active, and adaptable, serving our Lord with gratitude and joy. May we hear His call and answer it with unwavering faith and obedience.
