Welcome to "Fan the Flame" Friday.
This is a weekly post that will be "short and sweet" (kinda like me...)
Just a word and a question (or few)…just a little something to "fan the flame" of your creativity!
And, to further fan those faith-filled flames (try saying that 10 times in a row!) – I'm adding my favorite devotional from the week!
Today's word: alert
What is the difference between being aware of something and being on the alert for it?
What things should a Christian be on the alert for?
Why do you think God calls us to be alert - why is it so important?
"Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8, NLT)
"Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming."
(1 Peter 1:13, NIV)
"Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere." (Ephesians 6:18, NLT)
Let me know what you think!!
DEVOTIONAL OF THE WEEK:
"A miracle may make someone sit up and take notice, but it surely does not guarantee long-term change...A phrase has come down from this story (in Daniel) - "the handwriting on the wall" - to signify a final warning just before the end. The prophets of Israel and Judah tried to interpret God's "handwriting" for their countrymen, with little success, and God used Babylon to punish them...They have ignored handwriting on the wall."
*God may use "handwriting on the wall" in a person's life to get their attention.
"This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you…For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." (2 Timothy 1:6-7)
(Devotional: From "Meet the Bible" by Philip Yancey and Brenda Quinn, c. 2000, Zondervan Publishers)
Hi Sharon,
ReplyDeleteThis is word my attention has been drawn too, more than once this week. I think we have to be alert for the subtle attacks of Satan. Alert to our own shortcomings and beware of being judgemental intolerant and non compassionate to others. (well I know I have to be aware of these things) - thank you for once again, using your gift of writing to draw attention to those things God wants us/me to think about. God Bless xx
From someone who due to childhood trauma and continual unpredictability, lived on constant alert, I have spent the past few years trying to let go and let God. Being on alert to the devil is a command from God.....but I try to balance that with trusting God for protection and guidance. Definitely something for me to ponder.
ReplyDeleteWonderful devotional. I think that God's moving finger is actively writing in our day. We just don't seem to see it until He stops and waves His hands about dramtically. Even then, we're so easily distracted.
ReplyDeleteI think the Christian needs to remember that too often we're so busy being alert for the enemy "without" that we neglect to be alert for the enemy within. Infiltration has always been one of his most devious tricks. He loves to infiltrate our churches, our families, our lives,and (for me anyway) mostly our heads.
I almost forgot today was Friday, btw! I feel completely rained out and wiped out.
ReplyDeleteI think of alert has been watchful and ready to take action.
ReplyDeleteCulturally, there are days I want to bury my head in the sand and not be so alert- but, lately, God seems to be telling it is more important now to stay alert - what a timely message for this heart!
ReplyDeleteVery encouraging post, Sharon.
ReplyDeleteI learned from that today Sharon. We do need to stay alert! sandie
ReplyDeleteWhat is the difference between being aware of something and being on the alert for it?
ReplyDeleteBoy oh boy! Did I ever learn this when a wildfire came oh-so-close to our mountain home. I was aware of the fire for two days. But when it got within a mile of our town, I went on alert. Being aware is having head knowledge. Being alert is engaging all of our senses - and being ready to take action.
What things should a Christian be on the alert for?
The subtle taunts and temptations of the enemy. We should be on alert for his wicked ways. But, in a good sense, we should be on the alert for the coming of the Lord. We must not be caught sleeping - for He will come like a thief in the night.
Why do you think God calls us to be alert - why is it so important?
I think we need to be alert because the days are getting shorter. I truly believe the devil has *stepped us his game* - and persecution and evil is rampant. God wants His people alert, so that we will be properly equipped to stand FIRM when attacked, and ready to go HOME when He appears.
GOD BLESS!