Daily Journal: 16 February

Spiritual Indifference

Spiritual indifference is a thief. It steals enthusiasm and ultimately our belief. How do we make sure, once we’ve believed and received the saving grace of Jesus Christ, that we don’t allow spiritual indifference to steal what God has gained for us?

Along life’s way, apathy can become an issue. Others who don’t believe can speak against our faith and influence us. Situations arise in life that challenge our faith. Sorrow and pain can absorb us. It’s then that we have to remind ourselves why we believe. We have to recognise and learn the nature of God. We have to recall the enormous price Christ made for us. We go to the Word of God and learn, and be reminded of who He is, what He's done, who we are in Him and the purpose we now carry that will carry us into eternity. We fill ourselves with faith so that we don’t doubt, we don’t challenge God’s faithfulness, and we don’t lose our joy.

1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 (AMP)

But you, believers, [all you who believe in Christ as Savior and acknowledge Him as God’s Son] are not in spiritual darkness [nor held by its power], that the day [of judgment] would overtake you [by surprise] like a thief; for you are all sons of light and sons of day. We do not belong to the night nor to darkness. So then let us not sleep [in spiritual indifference] as the rest [of the world does], but let us keep wide awake [alert and cautious] and let us be sober [self-controlled, calm, and wise]. 

We learn not to be responsive to others who diminish the work of God in their lives or our lives, who question the goodness or legitimacy of God. We learn to recognise, and not come into agreement with those who disengage with His truth, but try to build others up in response. If they don’t wish to believe, let them go in their unbelief (Romans 1:24), but don’t follow them down that path.

1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 (AMP)

We [earnestly] urge you, believers, admonish those who are out of line [the undisciplined, the unruly, the disorderly], encourage the timid [who lack spiritual courage], help the [spiritually] weak, be very patient with everyone [always controlling your temper]. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek that which is good for one another and for all people. 

In humility, we come before God and surrender our circumstances and our relationships. We reflect on God’s promises that have been established and declare them over our lives and carry the knowledge that those promises are true. God will do what He says He will do.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-19 (AMP)

Rejoice always and delight in your faith; be unceasing and persistent in prayer; in every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench [subdue, or be unresponsive to the working and guidance of] the [Holy] Spirit. 

Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:24 (AMP)

Faithful and absolutely trustworthy is He who is calling you [to Himself for your salvation], and He will do it [He will fulfill His call by making you holy, guarding you, watching over you, and protecting you as His own].