February 1, 2008 1 Thessalonians 5:4-11, 16-18
READY POSITION
In
every sport there is a ready position. It’s a position wherefrom you
can react quickly, move with momentum, and best achieve your goal,
defeating the foe. God too presents us a ready position. It involves
spiritual understanding, soul-deep mental toughness, and confident
conviction. Are you ready? Do you play the game of life in the
Christian Ready Position? § Sons of Light & Day (v5) – We do not belong to the _______ or ________. - John 1:5 God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all.
- Rev.
21:23 The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for
the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. Psalm
119:105
- Gen 1:1-4, 14-17. Where the earth is now, there
preexisted DARKNESS; while God has always been light. The preexisted
space was void of light, thus a position of Satan. The universe was
created as an extension of God’s light. We were put here to battle the
darkness!
§ Alert (v6) – Don’t be like others who are ___________. - Wide Awake – unimpaired energy, clear minded, active
- Alarm sensitive, Aware, Expectant, Equipped
- Sleep walking, Drowsy (spiritual caffeine), Tired (sluggish)
§ Self-Controlled (v6&8) – Putting ____: (1 Cor. 13:13, Eph. 6:10-18) - Breastplate - Protection of the most vital organs of survival.
- Faith – unwavering confidence.
- Love – unwavering devotion, grace, mercy, forgiveness.
- Helmet – Protector of mentality, senses, thoughts
- Hope – salvation appointment(Keep It, Live It; v9)
§ Appointed (v9-10) – Not appointed to suffer _________. - Receive Salvation through Jesus Christ death.
- Whether alive or dead, we may live with Him!
- Reward of salvation is not exclusively a death state!
§ Encourage (v11) – Build each other ___. Promote Positive Position (Triple P) - How to? Do God’s will: (vs.16-18)
- Joyful 100%
- Pray 100%
- Thanks 100%
If
we can shed light, be alert & self-controlled, keep our
appointment, and encourage others; we will be in ready position to
succeed for Jesus! How’s your position? | 
