So let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober. – 1 Thessalonians 5:6
If someone invites you for a “cup of Joe” is there any doubt what they are talking about? In 1913, Secretary of the Navy, Josephus Daniels sent out General Order 99 prohibiting alcohol on Naval vessels. Urban legend reports disgruntled sailors then began calling coffee, then the strongest drink onboard, a “cup of Joe.” What does the sober lifestyle mean for a follower of Christ? Is it merely about avoiding alcohol and getting bigger cups of coffee?
Being sober-minded is an often-repeated command in the New Testament literally meaning, ”free from intoxicating influences.” While it certainly applies to refraining from drunkenness, it also suggests a broader interpretation. Ask yourself this question: ”WHAT has the power to capture my focus?” For most people, there are several issues, not just strong drink, that challenge self-control and get in the way of a deeply satisfying, spirit-filled life. It could be gossip or over-spending, food or pornography, escapism into games or too much work, the list is endless. Anything leading you away from sound judgment and Christ’s direction has the potential to be an intoxication for you.
Worldly intoxication keeps people from experiencing the joy of God’s presence! Do not let that be your story today. Pray that God will give you insight into anything that might be hindering your relationship with Christ. Ask also for those in authority in the United States to be inspired to live sober and God-honoring lives, steering the nation to readiness for the days to come.
Today’s Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:6
So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 1 Peter 1:13-17
13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” 17 And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile,
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
