Living a Faith That Pleases God
Have you ever let your coffee sit too long, only to take a sip and find it’s become disappointingly lukewarm? That’s the image the Bible uses in Revelation 3:16 to describe a certain kind of faith—a faith that’s neither hot and passionate nor cold and honest, but somewhere in the middle, bland and half-hearted. In today’s world, full of distractions, shifting values, and never-ending busyness, it’s easy to slip into this “lukewarm” zone without even noticing.
What Does It Mean to Be Lukewarm?
Being lukewarm isn’t just about having a few “off days” or struggling sometimes. It’s about getting comfortable with going through the motions—showing up at church, saying the right things, but not truly letting your faith shape your heart, your choices, or your life. The city of Laodicea, which Revelation addresses, was wealthy and self-sufficient, but its water was famously tepid—not cold and refreshing, not hot and healing, just…blah. Jesus uses this as a powerful symbol for a faith that’s lost its spark.
In Revelation 3:16, Jesus says, “So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” It’s strong language meant to wake us up. God desires a genuine relationship, not just routine or tradition.
Hot, Cold, and Lukewarm: What’s the Difference?
· Hot faith is alive, passionate, and actively seeking God. It’s not perfect, but it’s engaged, growing, and making a difference in the world.
· Cold faith might sound negative, but at least it’s honest. Sometimes people are distant from God, questioning, or even rejecting faith altogether. But this clarity means there’s room for God to work and to ignite something new.
· Lukewarm faith sits in the middle. It knows the words, but lacks the heart. It’s content to blend in, to compromise, or to stay comfortable. It’s faith on autopilot—and that, Jesus says, is the most dangerous place to be.
Why Is Lukewarmness Such a Problem Today?
Modern life makes lukewarmness easy. We’re bombarded by messages that put comfort, success, and personal happiness above all else. Social media, endless entertainment, and the pressure to fit in can drown out the quiet, steady call of faith. It’s tempting to pick and choose which parts of Christianity to live out—whatever fits best with our lifestyle.
Some warning signs of lukewarm faith:
· Faith is just a routine. You go through the motions but don’t feel close to God.
· You compromise what you believe to avoid awkwardness or to fit in.
· Prayer, worship, and serving others feel like chores rather than privileges.
· You selectively obey, following only the parts of faith that are convenient.
What’s at Stake?
Lukewarm faith isn’t just a minor flaw—it’s a serious spiritual problem. The Bible warns that half-heartedness is displeasing to God and ultimately leaves us empty. We miss out on the joy, purpose, and strength that come from a vibrant relationship with Him. And when our faith lacks conviction, it’s hard to inspire or help others. We become “invisible Christians,” unable to be the salt and light the world needs.
How Do We Break Free?
The call in Revelation 3:16 is not meant to shame—it’s meant to invite us to something deeper and better. Here are some practical steps to move from lukewarm to “hot” faith:
· Be honest with yourself and God. Admit where you’ve become complacent. Ask for forgiveness and a fresh start.
· Spend real time with God. Don’t just check the boxes. Talk to Him, listen, read scripture, and worship with your whole heart.
· Get involved. Serve in your church or community. Faith grows when we put it into action.
· Find accountability. Surround yourself with friends who will encourage and challenge you to keep growing spiritually.
· Start each day with surrender. Invite God to guide your choices, big and small.
Conclusion: Choose a Faith That’s Alive
In a world that settles for “good enough,” God invites us to something better—a faith that’s alive, passionate, and real. Lukewarmness may be comfortable, but it’s also empty. True faith changes lives—starting with our own.
Don’t settle for a middle-of-the-road faith. Pursue a relationship with God that fills you with purpose, hope, and love. Let your life show what it means to truly follow Christ—passionately, wholeheartedly, every day.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 