Scripture:
Rev. 3:15-16
15 “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! 16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.
Observation:
As Jesus challenges the churches he addresses the church in Laodicea. They have grown comfortable and casual in their relationship with God. The riches, comforts and lack of persecution have created a stagnate stance towards God. Jesus challenges them to move from that stance. Cold is even better than lukewarm.
Application:
The coldest I have been in my relationship with Jesus has always led me back to a place of repentance. It is in the darkness and despair that I am reminded of the grace and warmth of Jesus’ love. However the most precarious position I have ever been in is when I am lukewarm. Trapped somewhere in the middle of on fire for Jesus and running 100mph in the opposite direction. I am going to church, reading my Bible, meeting with people, even doing ministry, but I am going through the motions. This is the worst place to be. A few things…
-The default for me is this. I don’t run too far away, I just hangout close enough to be around Jesus but not with him. I must recognize this and be disturbed greatly by it. The gospel is the answer. Not more church, more Bible, more serving. The answer for me is more gospel. (Meditate on the gospel everyday. I am loved, forgiven and given access to God though Christ)
-Lukewarm happens when there is no challenge or persecution. This is still true today. I like comfort but comfort long term in this world will cause a lack of growth. May I always be willing to step into a challenge and be challenged by other people. (Don’t run from challenges)
-Hot should be the goal. The heat of my relationship with God is a result of stoking the fire. I know what makes this happen. Committing to prayer, personal worship, studying His word, meditating on the gospel, loving others, biblical fellowship, etc. I struggle when I am in isolation. May I seek to be sharpened and encouraged by a band of brothers that will keep the temperature of my faith high. (Stay committed to the things that keep my faith white hot)
Prayer:
Father thank you for this reminder this morning. I don’t want to get lukewarm. Thank you for revealing to me what keeps my faith hot.
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