Complacency
I know your deeds that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth.
Revelations 3:15-16
The above verse is what Christ said to the church in Laodicea. This was the wealthiest church of the seven churches Christ wrote about in Revelations. The church had become self sufficient and neglected being a witness for Christ which led them to idleness. It could be said they half-way followed Christ, and only when it was convenient for them. Christ said, Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God. (Matthew 19:24)
Why do think it is so difficult for the rich to enter the kingdom of God? Could it be comfort, self sufficiency, or worldly distractions, or maybe all three? We seek comfort, we are taught to be self sufficient, and there are many things in this world to entertain us that can take priority over God. Living in a rich country is probably the worst place for becoming a Christian, because there are many things in this world attracting our time and money.
I have traveled to other countries and by comparison I consider myself rich. I sometimes worry because I am indoctrinated into the comfortable life style and it may hinder me from serving Christ without me even knowing. Therefore I pray every day that the Lord will help me to surrender, to take away anything that keeps me from serving him, and to realize everything comes from God and belongs to God.
From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. (Luke 12:48) Our money belongs to God and our time belongs to God. If we use our money for God’s glory, and search for ways to serve the Lord, then we are pleasing to him. However, if we are complacent we may wait around for opportunities and then decide whether or not to be obedient, this is being lukewarm. If we are not aggressive in our faith then are we possibly lukewarm?
Today be Christ-like in everything you do and look for opportunities to minister to someone by being encouraging, praying, or simply listening. Be conscious that the Lord will direct you to those he wants you to minister. Commune with the Lord and ask him to guide you toward someone who needs uplifting and has an open heart to hear about Christ. Remember everything the Lord has given you belongs to him, including your own talents, and is to be used for his glory.
Prayer: Lord, keep me from being complacent but aggressive in searching for those who need someone who cares. Let me see others the way you see them, and with a heart of love and compassion. Guide me today in the Spirit and be with me as I invite you into my life. In Jesus name, Amen