“Awake, sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” – Ephesians 5:14
Most humans live within a sleepy dream. We are seduced by things which satisfy us for the moment but are unhelpful in experiencing a satisfied mind. Only God can wake us up. We alone can reject His offer and return to our slumber.
When we launched our podcasts we produced 20 core episodes providing the big picture on finding hope. One of these talked about Waking Up from our sleepy dream. Today we investigate being awake to the War in which we find ourselves.
If we live unaware and unengaged in the battle, we are easy targets. If we engage with intentionality, we are a more desirable target for the devil. Either way, you can be sure he will attempt to get you right where he wants you – the opposite of where God is calling you. Perhaps you will find this brief checklist helpful as you fight the good fight.
Ephesians 5:13-16
“But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. For this reason it says, “Awake, sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil.”
SOME DIRECTION WITH BOLD AWAKENING PRAYERS
√ Disassemble evil through dreams and visions.
√ Raise up Nineveh cities to repent and call out to God.
√ Raise up willing prophets of compassion and truth – of all ages.
√ Expose and unmask wicked schemes.
√ Unexpected awakening among teachers, students, parents, administrators.
√ That the Word would animate and vibrate in our city.
√ Shake up our politics and influencers.
√ Raise up Harvest workers/that long-planted seeds would produce fruit.
If our propensity is to live our lives asleep to God’s plan for us,
how can we design contemplation strategies to keep ourselves awake?
Do you invest in clarity regarding God’s mind concerning your life?
Do you believe God is a warrior?
Do you understand your identity as a warrior?
Who is your squad of fellow-warriors?
What are your personal vulnerabilities in the fight?
Do you feel well-schooled in the war and prepared for fighting the battle?
SLUMBER/Need to Breathe
I love this band and their songs. This one seems appropriate for our topic:
Days they force you – back under those covers – Lazy mornings they multiply
Glory’s waiting – just outside your window – Wake on up from your slumber – Baby, open up your eyes/Tongues are violent – personal and focused – Tough to beat with your steady mind/But hearts are stronger after broken – So, wake on up from your slumber – Baby, open up your eyes/All these victims – Stand in line for -The crumbs that fall from the table – Just enough to get by/All the while – Your invitation:
Wake on up from your slumber – Baby, open up your eyes
Eyes wide open!
Dave and Burnadette
Isaiah 50:4
“The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of disciples, that I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word. He awakens Me morning by morning, He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple.” Good enough for Jesus – good enough for us!
Romans 13:8
“The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” – Romans 13:8