“I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth! Revelation 3:15–16 (NLT)
Is it better to be hot or to be cold? When I was coming-of-age, I understood this text meant that to be cold was bad, and that to be hot was good. We can make a case that either hot or cold can be desirable. However, to be lukewarm is repulsive, not to mention, dangerous.
No matter our interpretation of hot or cold, mediocrity, indifference, or complacency is not a state of heart and mind that pleases God. Like Jeremiah, we may have “a fire burning in our hearts,” or we may be a source of cool refreshing water.
Jesus’ words to the Laodiceans struck a nerve. By the time, the waters from the hot springs near Hierapolis reached the city it was no longer just lukewarm, but undrinkable. Likewise, the cool waters that originated near Colossae arrived in less than satisfying condition.
To be hot or to be cold requires decisiveness. Lukewarmness doesn’t care and is indecisive. Remember it was Joshua who challenged the people: “choose today whom you will serve.” There is no benefit having one foot in the world, and the other one with God. Just make a decision! Otherwise, you default to lukewarmness and are useless to everyone.
Stop Wavering
Then Elijah stood in front of them and said, “How much longer will you waver, hobbling between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him! But if Baal is God, then follow him!” But the people were completely silent. 1 Kings 18:21 (NLT)
Elijah issued the challenge to the people. They were like gamblers betting on both teams. Or, like an investor, diversifying his portfolio. When it comes to right and wrong, good and evil, God or an idol, there is no room for moderation.
The problem is not in believing that there is a God, the majority of people believe. It is more likely a choice made on present gratification versus future benefits. Because they cannot see God, and they do not understand His “great and precious promises,” they go back and forth.
I have seen people respond to an invitation for salvation, week after week. The problem is not that they do not believe. When they come forward after hearing a stirring message, they experience conviction, but on Monday they go back to their old friends, and their old environment, and the temptation is too great. Sincerity is not the problem. It is the choices that they make.
Like the people in Elijah’s day, the choice is right in front of us. But remember, it is impossible to serve two masters. It is not easy to choose because the world is enticing. Moses had to make a choice: He chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin. Hebrews 11:25 (NLT)
Delaying or postponing the decision is precarious. This is what the Lord says: I will answer you in a time of favor, and I will help you in the day of salvation. Isaiah 49:8 (CSB)
Take a Stand
Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by his vast strength. Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil, spiritual forces in the heavens. For this reason take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. Ephesians 6:10–13 (CSB)
There is an enormous difference in believing that something is true and acting upon that belief. There are various places, such as tall buildings, and the Grand Canyon that have transparent platforms that you can walk on (for a fee, of course). I may believe that they are safe, but I refuse to act upon that belief.
In the same way, we might believe that there is a spiritual conflict with unseen adversaries. But the proof is found in our willingness to put on God’s armor and take a stand. In this spiritual battle there is no place for conscientious objectors. There is no spiritual Switzerland to which we can flee.
The conflict may be unseen, but it is real. God, in his mercy, gives us the reasons of refreshment and rest, but we must keep his armor close at hand. The evil day is upon us. It is only when we have undergone preparation that we will be able to take our stand.
The Valley of Decision
Thousands upon thousands are waiting in the valley of decision. There the day of the Lord will soon arrive. Joel 3:14 (NLT)
Joel informs us that there are countless people waiting in the valley of decision. Often, it is not that they lack the information necessary to decide, but rather it is a function of the will. They know what God wants of them, but they delay, not understanding that no decision is a decision.
People in the valley of decision are generally unhappy, and conflicted in their minds and spirits. Psychology has a term that fits well: cognitive dissonance. According to the American Psychological Association:
“Cognitive dissonance is the mental discomfort that results from holding two conflicting beliefs, values, or attitudes. People tend to seek consistency in their attitudes and perceptions, so this conflict causes unpleasant feelings of unease or discomfort.”
The valley of decision is an uncomfortable place. You adulterers! Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God. James 4:4 (NLT)
Hot or cold, in or out? There can be no compromise, and there is no middle ground.
Steve Ekeroth