Scripture to Read: Romans 13:11
Today, we examine Romans 13:11, as God led Paul to write, “Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we believed.” The first two words, “Do this,” are in reference to what we covered in yesterday’s devotion, that we are to love and not harm anyone. So, God then reminds us that since we know the darkness of our times and how we look forward to Christ’s return, we must be committed to a deep intimacy with Him and not daydream. God does not want us in a spiritual stupor, daze, or numbness. But the sad truth is that too many who claim to know Christ as their Lord and Savior live just that way. So-called Christians use the lamest excuses for not sharing their faith, being discipled, plugging into a strong body of believers, serving, giving of their finances, getting into the Word of God each day, deepening their intimacy with God through daily prayer/fellowship with Him, and so much more. God wants us to live with a daily hunger and thirst for Him and His word because the souls of lost people are at stake. God is reminding us that the time for every believer to awaken from any spiritual complacency is now. God tells us that our salvation is nearer to us than when we first surrendered to Christ as Lord. Our Lord will return, and we must be ready. Therefore, we need to live as if it’s happening today.
Challenge & Application
· Why do so many so-called Christians today live their lives as if their life is all about them and not about Christ?
· How are you living with the expectancy that Christ could come back today?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!