Wake Up and Strengthen What Remains
Monday, December 8
Revelation 3:1-3 (NIV)
“To the angel of the church in Sardis write: These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.”
Devotion
Jesus’ sobering words to the church in Sardis reveal a congregation that appeared vibrant on the outside but was spiritually dead inside, much like the dying churches Pastor Jentezen describes in his sermon Ways to Keep Your Church Alive. These churches lose their life when prayer fades from priority, leaving no anointing or power in their worship and ministry.
A self-centered, caretaker mindset replaces bold, risk-taking faith focused on reaching lost souls. Yet, just as Jesus urged Sardis to wake up, remember the basics, and repent, God calls us to revive what remains through fervent prayer, outreach, and passion for souls. He deeply cares for His church and wants it alive, growing, and impacting the world. Even a faithful remnant can spark awakening if we strengthen what’s left and return to our first love.
Take time today to assess your own faith or church community—where has complacency set in, and how can you prioritize prayer and outreach to experience fresh revival?
Today's Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Wake us up from spiritual deadness! Renew our passion for prayer and soul-winning so we reflect Your living church. Strengthen what remains and revive us fully. In the Name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
Revival begins when we courageously face what has grown weak and intentionally strengthen it through obedience. Start by returning to what you “received and heard.” Go back to the Scriptures that once stirred your heart. Reignite the practices that kept your spiritual life sharp—consistent prayer, gathering with believers, serving others, and sharing your faith. Ask the Holy Spirit to highlight one area that needs strengthening, and take a practical step today to rebuild it.
Resources
- Watch yesterday’s message “Ways to Keep Your Church Alive”! It’s a powerful reminder of what keeps the fire burning—prayer, purpose, and a heart for the lost. Let God stir your spirit and ignite your faith again!
- Partner with us as we continue inspiring people to live for Jesus. Your support truly makes a difference in millions of lives every single day. Prayerfully consider how you can be part of what God is doing, and help us reach even more hearts with the hope of the gospel. Vision 2025