Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: SLOTH (indolence; laziness) (01/29/15)
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TITLE: Asleep | Previous Challenge Entry
By Dot Hannah
02/04/15 -
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February 4, 2015
The rough, no nonsense words of the young preacher rang out loudly to those of us in the congregation. I struggled to stay focused, but then, I began to hear another voice. This voice was gentle, passionate, and much softer, but it pierced my inner spirit. As I listened in silence I began to see a picture of myself that concerned me.
The preacher proclaimed, “Christians have grown slothful in America. Our nation has become friendly terrain for our oppressive enemy, Satan. You see it clearly, yet you remain unmoved, too lazy to shake yourself out of a comfortable sleep. You no longer wish to hear and heed God’s voice. You need a cold dash of water in your face, and I fear you will have one soon.” I questioned myself, “Could this be true?”
Then the quiet inner voice asked, “Do you not see that you and your country have turned your backs on and lost touch with God? Do you not recognize that you have no fight in you, and that you justify your complacency with sin by reasoning that you have only expanded your vision and tolerance? You possess no deep sense of urgency for holiness and respect for righteousness. Can you not comprehend that you are in a comatose state that will not be easily ignited to engage with reality?” Then I heard the voice of the preacher again, “It will require a massive effort on your part to confront the problem by prayer and repentance.” I was comfortable, and I liked it that way. I did not want to be labeled as a bigot and politically incorrect, nor did I desire to appear odd. The Spirit asked, “Where did this mentality come from? God has certainly not changed or lowered His standards. Could it be that you have been brainwashed and deceived?”
I had to admit that I and others sat idly by when prayer was removed from our schools. I could see that we had paid a high cost. Now schools are one of the most dangerous places for a child to be. Where were our voices when Roe versus Wade became the law of the land? This has resulted in millions of innocent, unborn children being murdered under the pretense that it is the right of the mother. I had to acknowledge that we continue to vote for and elect those who support and uphold this tragic injustice. I had not researched the candidates I supported to understand what they believed and stood for. Morality matters.
I asked, “What can I do?” The Lord said, “Come, let us talk about these things. Humble yourself, pray, and repent. There is great power in prayer, but it will require hard work and discipline. The secret to change is seeking and hearing My voice. My voice screams for your allegiance. Do not listen when the enemy whispers, “You need rest. You deserve it. Let someone else fight. Let someone else pray.” You are perfect for this assignment, but it will not be easy. Study My Word. There are countless examples of nations who have gone down the same path. Wake up and inform others.”
“Warn young parents that a time is coming when it will be too late to influence or make a difference in the lives of their children. They prefer the lazy way, that is, they allow the television to occupy, entertain and train their children in the world’s ways. I have appointed them the privilege of nurturing and teaching the priceless gift of truth. It’s a hard job, but they can do it with my help and guidance. Watch what happens when they take this responsibility back.”
I immediately had to confess my laziness and spiritual apathy. If God had not engaged me in this conversation, I would still be deceived and in the dark. He loves me and you and desires to raise us from the dead. I so want to heed His call, and I know it will cost me. There’s no room in the army of God for laziness and indifference. Masses starving for the truth are perishing.
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14) KJV
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A bit of "red ink." Make sure you make a new paragraph when the speaker changes, even if the "speaker" is the spirit, or the MC thinking to himself. (or herself. :) ) So for example, in paragraph 2, I would have made a new paragraph for the last sentence. Also, since you state right there that it's the MC questioning him/herself, you don't really need the quotes.
I questioned myself. Could this be true?
Then, make a new paragraph and continue.
Great job with this.