“So then, let us not sleep, like the rest, but let us stay awake and be self-controlled.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:6 CSB
Being spiritually awake is mentioned many times in Scripture. Jesus used this concept to describe eternal life regardless of physical death, with Lazarus and others. It is also one of the most used ideas for encouraging Jesus-followers who are waiting on His victorious return.
1 Thessalonians 5 is packed with directives and practical guidance. Think about the pattern of the letter as: we believe, we care, we act. Because we have received eternal life and salvation in Jesus we are different, born again, here and now. Because of this we choose faith, confident hope, endurance, and joyful anticipation of Jesus’ victorious return. “…so that…we may live together with him,” 1 Thessalonians 5:10.
The directives and practical guidance of 1 Thessalonians 5 help us understand what it means to be spiritually awake. There are too many to unpack in one message, and yet they all inform how we may apply one instruction. Pray with alert perspective, persistence, joy, and gratitude.
“Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 CSB
“Always be joyful. Pray continually, and give thanks whatever happens. That is what God wants for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 NCV
“Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 The Message
What do we learn?
1. Because of Jesus we receive salvation.
2. Because of Jesus we are spiritually awake.
What should we do?
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 5, pray, and write one truth from it.
2. Identify where your faith could be strengthened. Share this.
3. Pray for each other. Encourage each other. Strengthen our shared faith.
4. Pray with alert perspective, persistence, joy, and gratitude.