WAKE UP AND GET CONTROL

Scripture: Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. — 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8 (KJV)

Devotional: In preparing for today God reminded me of a time where there was very little control in my life. It made life extremely difficult and unbearable. I actually found myself in uncontrollable environments quite often and at different points throughout my life. I wish I could explain more, but it involves others and it's their story to tell. But what I can say is God reminded me in a dream of just how hard that time was and how difficult it was to live day to day. When you are living a life out of control, you're not living a life at all.

As believers there is a difference between us and those who are not. In the scripture above it's referenced as day and night. We are to be vigilant, controlled, and disciplined. As believers there are certain fruits that others should see. Fruits of the Spirit that should radiate not only to other believers, but to those who do not yet believe. We should be set apart. In fact the scripture says we are. 

My question today is, are you living a life set apart? Is your day to day filled with chaos and lack of control? Perhaps you are living a life that is described above. One where you are reading your word, studying, and connecting with the Lord. Are you sharing with others? I was challenged recently, when I was asked the question, “Are you sharing with your sister everything that you're learning here?”. Quickly, my sister answered for me. “No!”. Ouch, that really hurt. I am not exactly sharing in a way I wish I could. Honestly, I wasn't sure if I was being received, so I made only small attempts.

Sometimes you go through life thinking I'm just trying to make it for myself, but then you realize there are those around you who also need what you have. For me I was thinking I'm the youngest in the family and I'm also the one who although I have the highest education, I'm seen as the “free spirit” type of person and definitely a non-intellectual type of person. I don't see it as a bad thing per say, I have some amazing intellectual type of people around me who inspire me and keep me going. I do the same for them. I remind them of times when they need to let go, relax, just hit cruise control or just free fall. 

So I challenge you, get ready, be ready, stay woke, and share the word once you have it to share. Don’t be sleep, making decisions day to day that are meaningless for the Kingdom. Be intentional about your life, and have self control. 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, wake us up Lord. Give us the strength to run this race and give us the wisdom to know when and how to share it. Speak to our hearts Lord, and guide us to the narrow path we are to follow. Open our eyes Lord to all you would have us to do for Your Kingdom. In Jesus name, Amen.