Romans 13:11 “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.” The calling to this truth is truly a blessing that many do not receive. But it does come with challenges that are unexpected by newcomers. Once you know the times to celebrate and are no longer asleep to the deception, family and friends might become a source of suffering. Those that are closer to salvation, understand that this walk doesn’t allow us to look back. 2^nd Corinthians 5:14 “For the love of Christ constraineth [compel] us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:” Verse 15: “And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.” Thus we could not continue in the path to destruction but must walk now in newness of life.

Our love of Christ must be unwavering, we could never put anyone before him. Matthew 10:37 “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” Verse 38: “And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” Verse 39: “He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.” We are required to give up that sinful lifestyle that we used to have, that we may receive eternal life. Don’t let any to diminish the worth of your soul for their carnal pleasures. The temporary affliction could never be compared to the glory you will receive. Although it might be a rude awakening, at least you finally understand the true meaning of love. Hopefully this lesson will encourage and teach you how to address some of the familiar issues or questions that might come.