biblicalpath (@biblicalpath)

Wake Up! For some reason, Samson is one of the most memorable judges (see Judges 13-16). He was known for his great strength and mighty victories over the Philistines. Most probably remember when he lost his strength. “And she (Delilah) made him sleep upon her knees; and she called for a man, and she caused him to shave off the seven locks of his head; and she began to afflict him, and his strength went from him” (Judges 16:19). Samson was asleep when he lost his strength. Delilah had asked him many times about his strength. His resistance to her continual cries waned. “And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily with her words, and urged him, so that his soul was vexed unto death” (Judges 16:16). It was then that he told her all his heart (see Judges 16:17). Samson had not stood strong in the Lord, as God's people are often told they must do. He relinquished, and he slept. What is the importance of staying awake today, and not sleeping? “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed” (Romans 13:11). * Awake means “to be awakened; used figuratively meaning to become attentive to one's dangerous position and to the salvation of God (see also Ephesians 5:14).” * Sleep means “sleep, that is, (figuratively) spiritual torpor (torpor means dullness; laziness; sluggishness; stupidity).” It is easy to become distracted by the lures of this world, and sleep spiritually. It is then that we do not recognize the enemy that lurks, seeking to destroy the Believers. What are we to do? “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6). Remember what Jesus reminded His disciples: “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). This is great counsel. Our spirit is willing, but we must remember that our flesh is weak. Christians must give much attention to their spiritual walk with the Lord, remaining faithful each and every day! The world today is not that much different than it was in Bible times. It is still important for Believers to stand strong in the Lord. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might” (Ephesians 6:10). This verse is right before the listing of the Christian's armor; our protection from the attacks of Satan (see Ephesians 6:11-18). One cannot “sleep” if one is wearing this armor. Nevertheless, Satan brings ruin to many Christians by rocking them to “sleep”, flattering them into a good opinion of their own safety, causing them to forget to stand strong in the Lord and not their own strength. It is then that Believers sleep. Christians should never be lulled to sleep. Remember, Satan actively contends with God's people. It takes constant effort to remain in the steadfast, favorable presence of the Lord. God's Word often warns Believers to be aware of Satan's constant prowling about them, seeking to destroy (see 1 Peter 5:8). There is something important to remember... read more at: http://biblicalpath.com/index.php/2026/07/26/wake-up/