Revelation 3:1-3
Have you ever felt that your calling, spiritual relationship, or ministry feels dry, passive, or too comfortable? Like a couple of months ago, you were on fire with the Lord, wanting and willing to get out of your comfort zone to praise him, serve him, and be used. But now you are in a relaxed state, which ends up making you lazy with your stewardships. The second and third chapter of Revelation is about John’s vision, where God speaks to seven churches. Chapter three He starts talking to the church of Sardis, saying, “… I know your deeps; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. Remember, therefore what you have received, therefore, what you have received and heard: hold it fast, and repent….”
A couple of weeks ago, I talked to God, telling Him that I have noticed my life, calling, and stewardships getting too comfortable and feeling more like a routine and checklist. I saw I had not done anything for a couple of weeks that would challenge me to grow. I have not invited someone new to church, ministered to my few, or sang a new song of praise. Thinking and looking back on how I have handled my stewardships lately made me realize I tend to fall into a pattern. Where I start the race running full of excitement and encouragement, then I begin to slow down and enjoy how far I have come, and then I start slowing down until my running becomes jogging and then jogging becomes walking. This makes me realize that walking is more in my comfort zone rather than running. So I start to amble for miles and miles until something happens to get me back in my zone. And then again, I start running, and the cycle continues. But rather than being on a cycle, I want to continue the race, slowing down when I have to and enjoying every step and growth without stopping or ambling.
How often have you just relaxed for pleasure or just because it’s comfortable? When your ministry, calling, or spiritual life calls you to run the race. I believe that for those who have been ambling, sleeping, or drying out, God wants us to WAKE UP and strengthen what remains before it dies. Remember what God has called you to do, and hold it; do everything you can to fulfill it. There is nothing wrong with slowing down and enjoying and celebrating the victories, but don’t stay there. Continue to run the race. Repent and break any cycle that needs to be broken. Your race, ministry, or calling is unfinished.
Prayer:
Thank you, God, for all that you do. Thank you for your grace and mercy. I repent of my laziness and wanting to be comfortable. Break the cycle of laziness, comfort, and indifference. You have called me to be more than a bench warmer. Guide me and help me honor you through our relationship, my ministry, and my personal life. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.
Worship Song: