GOT A FEVER?

98.6

Normal.

That’s the average temperature of the human body.

For some people, "normal" might be a little cooler – for others, "normal" might be a little warmer.

Me?

I’ve always been "hot" – (NO comments from the peanut gallery out there!)

A thermometer is such a useful tool. Because knowing the temperature of a person’s body is invaluable in judging whether they are sick or well – it can even provide a clue to how sick one is.

The highest fever I ever had was 105.2 – a childhood case of the "bad" measles made that happen at age 2! (Perhaps that would explain the fried brain cells –

just sayin’…)

But, on the serious side, the Bible talks about temperature, too.

Really? – I can hear you saying to yourself.

Yes, it does…

It talks about spiritual temperature.

In the beginning of the book of Revelation, Jesus addresses 7 churches. He applauds them for their godly ways, and judges them where they fall short.

But He is particularly harsh when he addresses the church in Laodicea:

"I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!" (Revelation 3:15-16)

A little background on Laodicea –

It was the wealthiest of the seven cities mentioned in Revelation. It was known for its banking industry, its wool manufacturing, and its medical school. But the city always had a problem with its water supply. At one time, an aqueduct was built to bring water to the city from hot springs. But by the time the water reached the city, it was neither piping hot nor refreshingly cool. It was lukewarm – tepid.

I can’t stand the word tepid – it even sounds disgusting!

The dictionary defines it this way - moderately warm; lacking in passion, force, or zest; marked by an absence of enthusiasm or conviction.

It makes me think of words like limp, timid, bland, tasteless – YUCK!

(From Sharon’s Dictionary of Synonyms)

I’m one of those people who has to have things REALLY cold (think a plethora of ice cubes) or REALLY hot (think "burn your tongue").

Because, after all, tepid things are ineffective in either refreshing us or warming us up.

And Jesus does NOT want us to have a faith like that.

The believers in Laodicea didn’t take a stand for anything. Their marked indifference led to idleness. They became hardened and self-satisfied.

Are there many other things more disgusting than a half-hearted, nominal Christian who’s self-sufficient?

I think not.

Jesus does not want us to follow Him halfway. He does not want timid believers.

He wants people who are "on fire" for Him. People who have the Spirit "burning" within them. He is looking for hearts "ablaze" with passion.

He wants disciples who have a "fever" – who are fervent in their commitment, and passionate in their pursuit of godliness.

What are the lukewarm, tepid areas in your life? The areas where you are neither hot nor cold.

Will you allow Jesus to help you "spit them out?"

BLOG = “Blessedly Leaning On God!”