Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

March 5– Morning

 by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“Let’s not sleep as others do.” 

—I Thessalonians 5:6

 

There are many ways for Christians to stay spiritually alert. One of the best ways is simply to talk together concerning the ways of the Lord. In The Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian and Hopeful journeyed towards the Celestial City, and as they walked they said, “To prevent drowsiness on our journey, let’s talk about the Lord together.” When Christian asked, “Brother, where should we begin?” Hopeful replied, “Let’s begin where God began with us.”

Christians who isolate themselves and walk alone are very liable to grow drowsy. Walk in the company of Christians, and you will stay awake, refreshed, and encouraged to make quicker progress on your journey to heaven.

I have only this to add: that, as you take “sweet counsel” with others in the ways of God, be sure to focus your discussion on the Lord Jesus himself. Let the eye of faith be constantly looking unto him; let your heart be full of him; let your lips speak of his worth. If you live near the cross, then you will not fall asleep.

It is also important to have a deep sense of the value of the place to which you are going. If you remember that your destination is heaven, you will not sleep on the road. If you think that hell is behind you and the devil is pursuing you, you will not loiter for long. Would a murderer sleep with the police on his trail? In the same way, Christian, will you sleep while the pearly gates are open, the songs of angels are waiting for you to join them, and a crown of gold is prepared for your head? No! In holy fellowship continue, then, to watch and pray not to enter into temptation. [M&E]