DO NOT SLUMBER BEFORE GOD By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
(Psalm 46:10, NIV)
Introduction
God desires that we approach Him with attentiveness and reverence. Yet, many come before Him with spiritual slumber, distracted and unaware of His voice.
This lack of alertness robs us of divine revelation and opportunities to receive His blessings.
When we present ourselves before God, we must be fully awake and vigilant in spirit. Slumber dulls our spiritual ears, making it impossible to hear and obey His instructions.
This call is for all believers to rise from complacency and remain steadfast in their walk with God.
1. Slumber: The Root of Spiritual Decline
Key Scripture:
"Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you."
(Ephesians 5:14, NIV)
Spiritual laziness has crept into the church, opening the door for sin and compromise.
What began as small acts of neglect has grown into a widespread blindness to sin. The enemy thrives in such an environment, sowing seeds of destruction.
When we slumber, we miss God's guidance, making us easy targets for the enemy.
To combat this, we must remain vigilant, understanding that spiritual laziness invites destruction and robs us of our inheritance in Christ.
2. Offer God Your Best
Key Scripture:
"Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops."
(Proverbs 3:9 NIV)
God desires the best from us, not the leftovers. Whether it is our time, resources, or worship, He is worthy of our utmost devotion. When we bring God our best, He blesses us abundantly in return.
Slumber in our spiritual lives dishonors God. Instead, we are called to awaken and prioritize His kingdom, knowing that every sacrifice we make for Him brings a far greater reward.
3. The Call to Vigilance
Key Scripture:
"Be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people."
(Ephesians 6:18, NIV)
Many have fallen prey to the enemy because of spiritual complacency. When we slumber in spirit, the enemy gains a foothold, leading to defeat and discouragement. God calls us to be vigilant, ready to discern and resist the forces of darkness.
This vigilance is not passive. It requires active engagement in prayer, worship, and obedience. Those who remain awake in spirit are equipped to overcome every attack and stand firm in faith.
4. Life Is a Journey, God Is the Guide
Key Scripture:
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."
(Psalm 119:105, NIV)
Life is a journey full of uncertainties, but God is our guide. As we walk with Him, we encounter battles that test our faith and commitment.
To continue on this journey, we must be prepared to fight against spiritual opposition.
The forces of darkness are relentless, targeting those who seek the face of God. Yet, victory belongs to those who remain alert, steadfast, and dependent on God.
The journey may be challenging, but God’s grace is sufficient for those who trust in Him.
5. Learning the Principles of Spiritual Warfare
Key Scripture:
"For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world."
(2 Corinthians 10:34, NIV)
No one who calls on the name of the Lord can avoid spiritual warfare.
To prevail, we must learn the principles of battle and the strategies of the enemy.
Those who ignore this reality risk falling into defeat, but those who awaken and fight in the Spirit are assured of victory.
Many will stumble and fall, but others will awaken, find their footing, and fight back in prayer and faith.
For those who endure to the end, there is the promise of triumph and the joy of walking in God’s purpose.
Conclusion
Slumbering before God is a dangerous state that leads to spiritual decline and vulnerability to the enemy’s attacks.
God calls us to awaken, repent, and remain vigilant in our faith.
By offering Him our best and staying alert in spirit, we can overcome the schemes of darkness and walk in His blessings.
As travelers on life’s journey, let us depend on God as our guide and embrace the spiritual battles ahead with courage.
With vigilance, prayer, and unwavering faith, we will prevail and experience the fullness of God’s promises.
"The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray."
(1 Peter 4:7, NIV)
