The Review and Herald, May 21, 1901 par. 1-4
“The words of the apostle Paul to Timothy, “Take heed unto thyself, and to the doctrine,” may be addressed to every member of the Church of God. We are not half awake. The enemy is watching for an opportunity to take God’s standard from the hands of His people, and place there his own standard; but they discern it not. The call comes, “What meanest thou, O sleeper? arise, call upon thy God.” It is high time for us to awake out of sleep, to cast off the armor of Satan, and call upon Him who never slumbers nor sleeps. The Lord desires men and women to break their connection with the enemy, and link up with Christ. The mistakes of the past have been enough. Through them minds have been confused, precious opportunities have been neglected, and time, which is of more value than gold, has been wasted. We need now strong evidence that the Lord is with us of a truth. We need to consecrate ourselves and all we have to the service of God.”
“In every church there is need of a spiritual awakening; for many who profess to be Christ’s servants are obeying the dictates of a natural heart. They do not the works of God. They have not a saving faith in Him whom the Father hath sent. Oh, if they could only understand that by their waywardness, their inconsistency, their half-hearted service, they are denying their Redeemer and putting Him to open shame!”
“There are many who do not possess that faith in Christ which would constitute them lights in the world. They are satisfied to stand on a low level. To them the Saviour says, “I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”
“Important events are about to take place. While the world is asking in scorn, “Where is the promise of His coming?” the signs are rapidly fulfilling. While men are crying, “Peace and safety,” sudden destruction is coming. The Spirit of God is being withdrawn from the earth, and calamity is following calamity by land and by sea. Tempests and earthquakes, fires and floods, are heard of on every hand. Only in God can security be found.” The Review and Herald, May 21, 1901 par. 1-4.
Lessons and Insights:
- Take Heed and Wake Up: The words of Paul to Timothy remind us to be vigilant and alert in our faith. We must be aware of the enemy’s schemes to divert us from God’s path.
- Break Free from Past Mistakes: Past mistakes can confuse minds and waste valuable time. It’s time to break our connection with the enemy and link up with Christ, learning from the past.
- Spiritual Awakening in Every Church: Every church needs a spiritual awakening. Many who profess faith may be following their natural desires, not doing God’s work. It’s a call for deeper faith and commitment.
- Be Lights in the World: Strive to be a light in the world. Don’t settle for a low level of faith. Christ offers us gold tried in the fire, white raiment, and eyesalve for spiritual vision.
- Heed Christ’s Call: Jesus calls us to be zealous, repent, and open the door to Him. He’s ready to come in and dine with us if we heed His voice.
- Signs of Important Events: Despite skepticism, the signs of important events are being fulfilled. It’s a reminder to stay watchful and faithful.
- Find Security in God: In a world of turmoil and uncertainty, the only true security is found in God. Keep your faith strong and unwavering.
These insights from the text encourage us to be spiritually awake, embrace a deeper faith, and find security in God as we navigate the challenges of life and mission work.
“Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.” Ephesians 5:14 “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23
