- “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober”
Ref:1 Thessalonians 5:6-null
The instruction to be sensitive is so emphasized throughout scripture that we cannot afford to ignore it.
Sobriety is used many times to connote the sensitivity that we are talking about.
To be sober means to be serious, watchful, temperate, moderate regarding indulgence of appetite, grave.
This instruction is given to spiritual leaders.
1 Timothy 3:2 says: “A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, SOBER, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach.”
It is also reiterated in Titus 1:7-8. But it doesn’t end there.
The wives of leaders are also given this instruction in 1 Timothy 3:11.
“Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, SOBER, faithful in all things.”
1 Timothy 3:11
Elderly men are also instructed to be sober.
Titus 2:2 says: “That the aged men be SOBER, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.
Elderly women and young women are also advised to do the same in Titus 2:3-4.
Young men are also admonished to be sober in Titus 2:6.
No one is left out of this admonition. And just in case you think you are, 1Thessalonians 5:6 says: “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.”
So why is sobriety so important? The first reason is that Jesus is coming soon. We have a ministry to fulfil. We need to tell people about him.
The ministry of reconciliation has been entrusted to our care and we can’t afford to let them die without Christ.
This is why as Believers, we take the study of the word seriously. We know it is our responsibility to teach others.
Another reason is that you have an adversary after you.
“in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.”
2 Corinthians 2:11 NIV
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
1 Peter 5:8 NIV
You must resist him, steadfast in the faith. This requires sensitivity!