Arise From Spiritual Slumber

Arise From Spiritual Slumber

Introduction

Spiritual slumber is a subtle but serious danger for the believer. Just as sleep renders the body inactive and unaware of its surroundings, spiritual sleep dulls our sensitivity to God’s voice, blinds us to spiritual realities, and weakens our resistance to sin. In a time of moral darkness and increasing spiritual warfare, God is sounding the alarm: "Wake up!"

Romans 13:11-12 (NKJV):

"And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light."

1. Understanding Spiritual Slumber

What is Spiritual Slumber?

A state of spiritual dullness and indifference

A heart that is no longer responsive to the Spirit

A loss of zeal for God’s presence, Word, and mission

It is possible to be physically awake but spiritually asleep. You may go through the motions of religion—attending church, reading a verse, even serving—but lack real connection with God.

Matthew 15:8 (NIV):

“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”

2. Signs of Spiritual Slumber

a) Loss of Passion for God

When the things of God no longer excite you, and time with Him feels like a burden rather than a joy.

Revelation 2:4 (NIV):

“Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.”

b) Neglect of the Word and Prayer

Neglecting personal devotion leaves the soul malnourished and vulnerable to deception.

Luke 21:34-36 (NIV):

“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life... Be always on the watch, and pray...”

c) Comfort with Sin

When sin no longer convicts or disturbs us, we are in danger.

Ephesians 5:8-11 (NIV):

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light... Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”

3. The Call to Wake Up

God is not only calling us to be saved but also to be alert, watchful, and engaged in His purposes.

Ephesians 5:14 (ESV):

“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”

This is both a rebuke and a promise. The Lord rebukes the sleepy heart but promises to shine His light upon all who arise.

4. Reasons to Wake Up

a) The Times Are Urgent

Romans 13:11: “Knowing the time...”

We are closer to the return of Christ than ever before. Every moment matters.

b) The Enemy is Active

1 Peter 5:8 (NIV):

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

A sleeping Christian is an easy target for the enemy. Spiritual slumber weakens our defenses.

c) Souls Are at Stake

John 4:35 (NIV):

“Open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”

We cannot afford to be asleep while souls perish. Evangelism, prayer, intercession, and compassion must be revived in us.

5. How to Awaken Spiritually

a) Repent and Return

Revelation 2:5 (NIV):

“Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.”

Admit your spiritual condition and return with all your heart.

b) Reignite the Fire through Prayer and the Word

Psalm 119:25 (NIV):

“I am laid low in the dust; preserve my life according to your word.”

The Word of God and prayer awaken the heart and align us with His will.

c) Surround Yourself with Awake Believers

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV):

“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds... encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Spiritual slumber can be contagious. Surround yourself with people who stir your passion for Christ.

d) Live with Eternal Purpose

Colossians 3:2 (NIV):

“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

Don’t live as if this world is your home. Live with eternity in view.

6. The Fruit of Awakening

When we arise from slumber:

Our joy is restored

Our discernment sharpens

Our prayers have power

Our lives bear fruit

God’s glory is revealed through us

Isaiah 60:1-2 (NKJV):

“Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth... But the Lord will arise over you.”

Conclusion: A Personal Call

Today, the Spirit is calling you to wake up. Not tomorrow. Not someday. Now.

2 Corinthians 6:2 (NIV):

“I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”

If you’ve grown weary, cold, or distracted—God can awaken you again. He is merciful, patient, and ready to pour fresh fire into your soul. Don’t stay asleep. Arise, shine, and walk in the light of His calling.