Awake, O Sleeper! Series

AWAKE, O SLEEPER!

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 5:14

"Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light."

Supporting Texts: Romans 13:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:6, Isaiah 60:1

INTRODUCTION

Spiritual slumber is one of the greatest dangers a believer can face. When a person is spiritually asleep, they become unaware of the times, insensitive to God's voice, and vulnerable to the enemy. The call to wake up is a call to revival, to rise from passivity and step into the divine purpose God has for us.

The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 5:14, urges believers to awake from their spiritual slumber and receive the light of Christ. This sermon challenges us to examine our lives and take action so that we do not miss out on God’s will for our generation.

1. SIGNS OF SPIRITUAL SLEEP

Many believers are spiritually asleep without realising it.

a) Lack of Passion for God

When prayer, Bible study, and worship become a burden, it is a sign of spiritual sleep (Revelation 2:4).

b) Compromise with Sin

A spiritually sleeping Christian tolerates sin and drifts from holiness (1 Corinthians 15:34).

c) Neglect of Kingdom Assignments

When we ignore God's calling and become distracted by worldly pursuits, we are spiritually asleep (Jonah 1:5-6).

d) Indifference to the Holy Spirit's Leading

When we no longer hear or obey God's voice, we are in a dangerous state (1 Samuel 3:10).

e) Biblical Example: Samson

Samson was physically strong but spiritually asleep, which led to his downfall (Judges 16:19-20).

2. WHY WE MUST WAKE UP

God calls us to spiritual awakening because our destiny depends on it.

a) The Time Is Short

We are closer to Christ’s return than ever before (Romans 13:11).

b) The Enemy Is Attacking

The devil takes advantage of those who are spiritually asleep (1 Peter 5:8).

c) God Has a Purpose for Us

We must arise to fulfil our divine assignment (Jeremiah 1:5).

d) Revival Is Needed

When the Church sleeps, the world suffers (Habakkuk 3:2).

e) Biblical Example: The Ten Virgins

Only those who were awake and prepared entered the wedding feast (Matthew 25:1-13).

3. HOW TO AWAKEN SPIRITUALLY

To wake up from spiritual slumber, we must take deliberate steps.

a) Repent and Seek God Anew

A fresh commitment to God is the first step to revival (Hosea 6:1-2).

b) Renew Your Mind with God's Word

The Word of God brings spiritual enlightenment (Romans 12:2).

c) Reignite the Fire of Prayer

Prayer is the key to staying spiritually alert (Luke 18:1).

d) Surround Yourself with the Right People

Being among spiritually awake believers keeps us strong (Hebrews 10:25).

e) Biblical Example: Peter

After spiritual sleep led to his denial of Christ, Peter repented and became a great leader in the early Church (Luke 22:31-32).

4. THE BLESSINGS OF SPIRITUAL AWAKENING

When we awaken spiritually, we experience divine transformation.

a) Clarity of Purpose

We begin to walk in God's will with confidence (Psalm 119:105).

b) Supernatural Strength

The power of God flows in us when we are spiritually awake (Acts 1:8).

c) Victory Over the Enemy

Satan loses his grip on spiritually alert believers (James 4:7).

d) Fresh Revelation and Direction

God begins to reveal deep truths to us (Jeremiah 33:3).

e) Biblical Example: Paul

After his spiritual awakening, Paul became a mighty vessel for God (Acts 9:3-6).

5. MAINTAINING A SPIRITUALLY ALERT LIFE

Spiritual awakening must be sustained to prevent relapse.

a) Daily Devotion and Meditation on God's Word

Regular study keeps us spiritually strong (Joshua 1:8).

b) Consistency in Prayer and Worship

A praying believer stays spiritually awake (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

c) Active Service in God's Kingdom

Engaging in God's work keeps us alert and accountable (1 Corinthians 15:58).

d) Walking in the Spirit

Being led by the Holy Spirit keeps us in tune with God (Galatians 5:16).

e) Biblical Example: Daniel

Despite being in Babylon, Daniel remained spiritually awake through prayer and devotion (Daniel 6:10).

CONCLUSION

God is calling us to wake up from spiritual slumber. There is too much at stake—our destinies, our families, our generation, and our eternal rewards. May we arise and walk in the light of Christ so that we may fulfil His purpose and remain victorious in our Christian journey.

PRAYER POINTS

1.  Lord, awaken me from every form of spiritual sleep.

2.  Father, restore my passion for prayer, worship, and the Word.

3.  Lord, break every spiritual slumber that hinders my destiny.

4.  Father, open my spiritual eyes to see and understand Your will.

5.  Lord, ignite the fire of revival in my heart.