Going Deeper in “Don’t Hit the Snooze Button on God”
Read the following a few times:
Luke 2:8-14; Rom 13:11; 1 Thes 5:6; 1 Pet 5:8; Col 4:2
Reflect on the following:
1. Jesus uses a simple sign (a budding tree) to teach watchfulness. What “everyday signs” of God’s faithfulness do you see in your own life? (How might gratitude help you notice them more?)
2. Jesus says, “the Kingdom of God is near.” How does a thankful heart help you stay awake to God’s nearness instead of drifting into spiritual routine or complacency?
4. Jesus warns against hearts becoming “dulled” by worry, pleasure, or busyness. Which of these most threatens to dull your heart, and how does thanksgiving counter it?
5. Think of a time when practicing gratitude helped clear your spiritual vision. What changed in you when you gave thanks?
6. Jesus tells His disciples to “keep alert at all times.” How is thanksgiving a spiritual discipline that helps keep you alert?
7. Jesus does not say, “Be strong first.” He says, “Pray that you may be strong.” How can gratitude become part of the strength you need to stand firm in hard seasons?
8. Jesus frames watchfulness not as fear but readiness. How does thanksgiving shift your mindset from fear of the future to hope in God’s faithfulness?
9. Look back over the last year. Where can you see signs—small or large—of God’s presence, provision, or guidance?
10. How might intentionally naming your blessings—daily or weekly—help you resist the temptation to “hit the snooze button” spiritually?
Spiritual Challenges:
1. What is one area of life where God is inviting you to stay awake and thankful right now?
2. What small daily gratitude practice could keep your heart from becoming dull in the weeks ahead?
3. Who is one person you can thank this week as a way of living out Jesus’ call to stay alert and aware?