Theme: July—A Month of Quick Get Up: Put On Your Clothes and Sandals.

Sub-Theme: Where God Guides, God Will Provide.

Bible verse- Acts 12:7-8, Psalms 23:1

Introduction:

Praise the Lord

Before we begin, let’s remember: God has been good in every one of our lives last week. This week, trust that He is ready to do even greater things! Stay expectant, keep your faith strong, and watch how God moves powerfully in your life and in Churches. Also, today’s sermon is very short. Parents, be encouraged: your love and prayers shape your children’s future. Keep guiding them in faith and hope!

This July, let us embrace the call to action: “Quick, get up! Put on your clothes and sandals.” In moments of uncertainty, God’s guidance is sure, and His provision is unfailing. Our anchor scripture, Psalms 23:1, reminds us:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalms 23:1)

Just as God led David through green pastures and still waters, He leads us today. In Acts 12:7-8, Peter is awakened by an angel in prison:

“And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.” (Acts 12:7-8)

This month, God is calling us to readiness, faith, and obedience—assuring us that wherever He leads, He provides.

Subtopic 1: The Call to Quick Action:

When God calls, He often requires immediate response. Peter was asleep in prison, bound by chains and surrounded by guards, yet God’s intervention was sudden and urgent. The angel’s command, “Arise up quickly,” teaches us that divine opportunities demand swift obedience. Delayed action can mean missed blessings. God’s timing is perfect, and when He opens a door, we must move without hesitation.

Like Peter, we may find ourselves in situations that seem impossible. But God specializes in the miraculous. When He says, “Get up,” it is not just a suggestion—it is a command that signals breakthrough. Our willingness to respond quickly is a testament to our faith and trust in God’s sovereignty. This July, let us be alert and ready to move at God’s instruction, knowing that He is orchestrating our deliverance and advancement.

Subtopic 2: Putting On Your Clothes and Sandals—Preparation for the Journey:

The angel instructed Peter to put on his clothes and sandals, symbolizing readiness for a journey. God does not lead us out of bondage to leave us unprepared. He equips us for every step ahead. Our “clothes” represent righteousness and identity in Christ, while our “sandals” signify readiness to walk in God’s purpose.

Ephesians 6:14-15 : “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”

Preparation is essential. God’s guidance comes with provision—He ensures we have what we need for the journey. This July, clothe yourself with faith, hope, and love. Lace up your spiritual sandals, ready to walk in obedience. Trust that God has already made provision for your every need as you follow His lead.

Subtopic 3: Where God Guides, God Provides :

The assurance of God’s provision is foundational to our faith. Psalms 23:1 declares, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” When God guides, He provides—spiritually, emotionally, materially. Peter’s escape from prison was not just about freedom; it was about God’s faithfulness to supply every need along the way.

God’s provision may not always come in the way we expect, but it is always timely and sufficient. Whether it is manna in the wilderness, ravens bringing food to Elijah, or an angel leading Peter, God knows how to meet our needs. As we step out in obedience this month, let us do so with confidence that God’s provision will meet us at every turn.

Subtopic 4: Following God’s Lead—A Life of Faith:

The final instruction to Peter was, “Follow me.” True freedom and fulfillment come from following God’s lead, even when the path is unclear. Faith is not just believing that God can, but trusting that He will.

Hebrews 11:8 : “By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as His inheritance, obeyed and went, even though He did not know where he was going.”

This July, let us resolve to follow God wholeheartedly. It may mean stepping out of comfort zones, leaving behind old chains, or embracing new assignments. But as we follow, we experience the fullness of God’s plan and provision. Let faith, not fear, guide your steps.

This Week’s Reflection:

Reflect on areas where God is prompting you to “get up quickly.” Are there opportunities, relationships, or assignments you have delayed responding to? Consider how God’s provision has met you in the past and how He is calling you to new levels of readiness and obedience. Pray for sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s leading and courage to act swiftly when God calls. Take time to thank God for His faithfulness and provision in every season. As you move forward this week, remember that God’s guidance is always accompanied by His provision. Let this assurance fuel your faith and inspire your actions.

Self-Examination:

Ask yourself: Am I ready to respond when God calls? Have I put on the spiritual “clothes and sandals” needed for my journey? Examine any areas of hesitation or fear, and surrender them to God. Commit to being alert and responsive to His voice, trusting that He will provide all you need as you follow Him.

Conclusion:

This July, God is calling us to a season of quick obedience and readiness. Like Peter, we may find ourselves in challenging circumstances, but God’s guidance is sure, and His provision is abundant. As we “get up, put on our clothes and sandals,” let us do so with faith, trusting that where God guides, He will provide. Embrace this month as a time to move forward, prepared and confident in God’s unfailing love and faithfulness. Let us walk boldly into the new things God has prepared, knowing that every step is ordered and supplied by Him.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for being our Shepherd and Provider. We praise You for Your guidance and faithfulness. This month, help us to respond quickly to Your call, to put on our spiritual clothes and sandals, and to walk in readiness and obedience. Remove every chain that holds us back and fill us with courage to follow where You lead. Remind us daily that Your provision is always enough. Strengthen our faith, grant us wisdom, and help us to trust You more deeply. May we experience Your presence and provision in every area of our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God bless you abundantly.