Revelation 3:16 – “So, because you are lukewarm – neither hot nor cold – I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
Like to avoid that fate? Let’s take a look today at lukewarm.
What makes for lukewarm?
Lukewarm is self-satisfied – “I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.”
Lukewarm doesn’t know real riches.
Lukewarm doesn’t recognize true need.
Lukewarm doesn’t know the value of suffering – “gold refined in the fire”.
Lukewarm wants to be comfortable.
Lukewarm doesn’t seek righteousness – “white clothes to wear to cover” the shameful state of nakedness.
Lukewarm thinks in terms of “I’m doing pretty well” and “everyone sins”.
Lukewarm has no vision – standing in the middle of life – blind.
Jesus pronounces the lukewarm to be “wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.”
Coming across a person standing in the street who was in difficult times without food, clothing and unable to see … well most of us would realize they needed help.
But what about seeing our own situations through the spiritual vision of Christ?
Are we standing in our homes – looking around at furniture and clothes and catalogues?
Do we see our connection with Christ as church attendance or manageable monetary offerings?
When was the last time we thought about Jesus on the cross and cried?
When did I last give to the poor until I had no money?
When did I offer to talk to someone about eternal life in spite of feeling embarrassed because the person seemed far more together than me?
When did we last show mercy?
When were we last on our knees to cry out for a friend’s child who has lost their way?
When was the last time I laid my hands on someone because Jesus said I could and they would be healed?
Do I really grasp the tremendous love that was poured out for me as Jesus bled and died in my place?
Have I ever thought about the sunrise that first Resurrection morning?
Wretched … pitiful… poor … blind … and naked.
Lukewarm leaves the rest of the world untouched as I sit in comfort.
Well … there is a solution for lukewarm.
Dear Jesus,
I have been lukewarm. Please grant me gold refined in the fire and keep me safe in the flames. Allow me to walk in the kingdom of heaven because You paid the price and grant me a white robe to wear. From today forward … let me see.
I know You rebuke and discipline those You love. Thanks for loving me so much to correct me and draw me closer. I repent.
Love, Bev