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

Bible verse – Acts 12:7-8

Before we begin, let’s remember last month was our month of second chances. We reflected on God’s grace that restores and renews us, offering fresh starts where we once failed. Many experienced renewed hope, forgiveness, and opportunities to make things right, preparing us for this month’s call to quick action and obedience.

Introduction

July marks a new season—a time to rise quickly, shake off slumber, and prepare for God’s next move. In Acts 12:7-8, we find Peter imprisoned, bound by chains, and surrounded by guards. Suddenly, an angel appears, and everything changes:

“Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. ‘Quick, get up!’ he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. Then the angel said to him, ‘Put on your clothes and sandals.’ And Peter did so. ‘Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,’ the angel told him.” (Acts 12:7-8)

As we step into the month of July, we are called to embrace a season of spiritual awakening and decisive action.

Imagine the scene: Peter, bound in chains, surrounded by guards, and seemingly without hope. Yet, in a moment, God intervenes. The angel’s appearance is sudden, the command urgent. There is no time for hesitation or second-guessing. Peter is told to get up quickly, to put on his clothes and sandals, and to follow the angel out of captivity.

This narrative is not just a historical account; it is a spiritual blueprint for us today. How often do we find ourselves in situations that feel confining—whether due to fear, doubt, past failures, or external circumstances? How often do we sense God nudging us, “Quick, get up!”—calling us to action, to faith, to new beginnings?

July is a month to respond to God’s call with immediacy and trust. It is a time to shake off spiritual lethargy, to clothe ourselves with readiness, and to step boldly into the freedom and purpose God has prepared. As we journey through this message, let us open our hearts to the urgency of obedience, the necessity of preparation, the importance of following divine direction, and the courage to step out of our prisons. May this month be marked by a quick response to God’s voice and a renewed commitment to walk in His freedom.

This passage is a vivid reminder that God’s deliverance often comes suddenly and requires our immediate response. July is our month to “get up quickly,” to put on our spiritual clothes and sandals, and to follow God is leading without hesitation. As we explore this theme, let us consider how God calls us from places of confinement into freedom, from passivity into purposeful action. Are you ready to respond when God says, “Quick, get up!”?

Point no 1: The Urgency of Obedience.

Peter’s deliverance began with a command: “Quick, get up!” Obedience in the moment is crucial. Delayed action can mean missed opportunities for breakthrough. The angel’s instruction was not just about escape, but about aligning with God’s timing. In our lives, God often prompts us to act swiftly—whether it’s forgiving someone, stepping into a new role, or letting go of fear.

“Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. ‘Quick, get up!’ he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.” (Acts 12:7)

Obedience is often the bridge between bondage and breakthrough. When God speaks, He expects a response—not tomorrow, not when it’s convenient, but now. Delayed obedience is, in essence, disobedience. The opportunities God provides are often time-sensitive, and our responsiveness can determine whether we step into freedom or remain stuck.

Consider how many biblical persons experienced transformation because they obeyed promptly. Abraham left his homeland at God’s command. Moses confronted Pharaoh when God said, “Go.” The disciples left their nets immediately to follow Jesus. Each act of quick obedience led to a new chapter in God’s unfolding plan.

In our own lives, God may be prompting us to forgive someone, to step into a new ministry, to let go of a harmful habit, or to speak words of encouragement. These nudges are not to be ignored or postponed. The chains that bind us—fear, bitterness, insecurity—often fall off when we simply say “yes” to God’s call.

July is a month to cultivate a heart that listens and responds swiftly. Ask yourself: Are there areas where you’ve been slow to obey? What is God asking you to do today? Remember, your quick obedience can lead to miraculous freedom—not just for you, but for those around you. Let us be people who hear God’s voice and act without delay, trusting that His timing is perfect and His ways are always for our good.

Obedience releases us from what binds us. Peter’s chains fell off as he responded. Likewise, our willingness to act on God’s word brings freedom from spiritual, emotional, and even physical limitations. July is a call to respond without hesitation, trusting that God’s instructions are for our good and His glory. Are you ready to act quickly when God calls?

Point no 2: Dressing for the Journey.

The angel told Peter to put on his clothes and sandals—practical steps for the journey ahead. Spiritually, this means preparing ourselves for what God has planned.

“Then the angel said to him, ‘Put on your clothes and sandals.’ And Peter did so.” (Acts 12:8)

Peter was not just being freed from prison; he was being prepared for a journey. The clothes and sandals symbolized readiness for movement, for action, for stepping into what God had next. In the same way, God calls us to be spiritually dressed and prepared for the paths He sets before us.

Ephesians 6:13-15 expands on this idea:

“Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 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.” (Ephesians 6:13-15 )

Being ready for God’s call means more than just willingness; it requires preparation. Are you daily clothing yourself with truth, righteousness, and peace? Are you nurturing your relationship with God through prayer, worship, and the study of His Word? Are you cultivating a heart that is quick to serve and slow to anger?

July is not just about getting up; it’s about being equipped. God wants us to be dressed for spiritual battle, ready to walk in faith, and prepared to serve others. This preparation is both practical and spiritual. It may mean setting aside time for devotion, seeking accountability, or learning new skills for ministry.

Ask yourself: Are you spiritually dressed for the journey God has for you? Or have you neglected the disciplines that keep you ready and alert? This month, commit to putting on your spiritual clothes and sandals every day, so that when God says, “Follow me,” you are ready to move without hesitation.

Preparation involves prayer, studying God’s Word, and cultivating a heart ready to serve. July is not just about getting up, but about being equipped for what’s next. Are you spiritually dressed for your journey?

Point no  3: Following Divine Direction

Once Peter was dressed, the angel gave him a final instruction: “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” Deliverance was not just about being set free from prison; it was about following God’s guidance into a new future.

“‘Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,’ the angel told him.” (Acts 12:8)

God does not set us free so we can wander aimlessly. He has a purpose and a path for each of us. Following divine direction means trusting God’s leadership, even when the way is unclear or unfamiliar.

Proverbs 3:5-6 offers timeless wisdom:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Peter had to trust the angel and follow, even though he did not fully understand what was happening. Sometimes, God’s instructions may seem confusing or even impossible. Yet, as we step out in faith, He makes the way clear.

In our lives, following God’s direction may involve making difficult decisions, moving out of our comfort zones, or embracing new opportunities. It requires humility, patience, and a willingness to let go of our own plans.

July is a month to recommit to following God’s lead. Are you seeking His guidance in prayer and through His Word? Are you open to the Holy Spirit’s promptings, even when they challenge your assumptions? Remember, God’s direction is always for your good, leading you to places of purpose, growth, and blessing.

Reflect on times when you followed God’s lead and experienced His faithfulness. Let those memories fuel your trust for the journey ahead. This month, let us be people who not only get up and dress for the journey but also follow God’s direction wholeheartedly, confident that He knows the way.

Point no  4: Stepping Out of the Prison

Peter’s deliverance reached its climax when he physically stepped out of the prison. This act required faith, as he initially believed he was seeing a vision rather than experiencing reality.

“Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.” (Acts 12:9)

God’s deliverance is both miraculous and practical. While He provides the means of escape, we must take the steps necessary to walk in freedom. Stepping out of the prison means leaving behind the things that have held us captive—whether they are habits, fears, relationships, or mindsets.

Isaiah 43:19 speaks of God’s desire to do new things in our lives:

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:19 )

Sometimes, the prisons we find ourselves in are of our own making—constructed from past hurts, disappointments, or self-doubt. Other times, they are imposed by circumstances beyond our control. Regardless of their origin, God’s power is sufficient to break every chain.

But freedom is a choice. We must be willing to step out, even when it feels uncertain or uncomfortable. Like Peter, we may struggle to believe that what God is doing is real. Yet, as we move forward in faith, the reality of God’s deliverance becomes evident.

July is a month to identify and step out of our prisons. What is holding you back from fully embracing God’s purpose? What steps can you take to walk in freedom? Trust that as you move, God will make a way—even in the most unlikely circumstances.

Let us be courageous, knowing that God’s new thing is already springing up. May we perceive it, embrace it, and walk boldly into the freedom He offers.

This Month  Reflection.

As you reflect on this week’s message, take time to consider the areas of your life where God is calling you to “get up quickly.” Are there situations where you have sensed His prompting but have hesitated or delayed your response? Perhaps it is a relationship that needs mending, a step of faith you have been avoiding, or a habit that needs breaking.

Reflect on the practical ways God has already equipped you for the journey ahead. What spiritual “clothes and sandals” has He provided? This could include the wisdom you have gained through past experiences, the support of a faith community, or the gifts and talents He has placed within you. How can you better utilize these resources to prepare for what God is calling you to do?

Think back to times when you have followed God’s direction in the past. What was the outcome? How did your obedience lead to growth, blessing, or breakthrough? Remembering God’s faithfulness can strengthen your resolve to follow Him now.

Consider also the “prisons” in your life—those areas where you feel stuck, limited, or bound. These could be emotional, spiritual, or even physical challenges. Ask God to reveal any hidden chains and to give you the courage to step out in faith. Remember the promise of Isaiah 43:19:

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:19)

Spend time this week in prayer, asking God to reveal any areas of hesitation and to give you the courage to respond promptly. Journal your thoughts, noting any specific steps you sense God asking you to take. Remember, God’s deliverance is both miraculous and practical—it requires your participation. July is your month to rise, dress, and follow.

Let this week be a time of intentional reflection and action. God’s deliverance is both miraculous and practical—it requires your participation. July is your month to rise, dress, and follow. Embrace it with faith and expectancy.

Self-Examination

Take a moment for honest self-examination. Are you truly ready to respond when God says, “Quick, get up!”? Identify any fears, doubts, or excuses that may be holding you back. Are you spiritually prepared, or have you neglected your “clothes and sandals”—the disciplines and habits that keep you ready for God’s call?

Examine your heart: Are you ready to respond when God says, “Quick, get up!”? Identify any fears or excuses that hold you back. Are you spiritually prepared, or have you neglected your “clothes and sandals”? Consider whether you are following God’s direction or relying on your own understanding. Be honest about any “prisons” you need to leave behind. Ask God for clarity, readiness, and boldness to step into the freedom and purpose He has prepared for you this July.

Ask God to reveal any areas of resistance in your heart. Pray for clarity, readiness, and boldness to step into the freedom and purpose He has prepared for you this July. Remember, self-examination is not about condemnation, but about positioning yourself to receive God’s best.

Conclusion

As we journey through July, let us embrace the call to rise quickly, put on our spiritual clothes and sandals, and follow God’s leading with unwavering faith. Peter’s miraculous escape from prison is more than a story of physical deliverance; it is a powerful illustration of the spiritual freedom and purpose God desires for each of us.

“Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. ‘Quick, get up!’ he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. Then the angel said to him, ‘Put on your clothes and sandals.’ And Peter did so. ‘Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,’ the angel told him.” (Acts 12:7-8)

This month, let us be people who respond promptly to God’s call. Let us cultivate hearts that are quick to obey, knowing that delayed obedience can mean missed opportunities for breakthrough. Let us be diligent in preparing ourselves—clothing ourselves daily with the armor of God, nurturing our relationship with Him, and being ready for whatever He asks of us.

Let us also commit to following God’s direction, trusting that His ways are higher than ours and that He leads us to places of purpose and blessing. Even when the path is unclear or the steps feel daunting, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.

Finally, let us have the courage to step out of our prisons—whatever form they may take. God’s power is sufficient to break every chain, but we must be willing to walk in the freedom He offers. July is a month of new beginnings, a time to leave behind what binds us and step boldly into the future God has prepared.

May this month be marked by quick obedience, spiritual readiness, faithful following, and courageous action. As we do, we will experience the fullness of God’s deliverance and the joy of walking in His purpose.

This month, let’s be people who respond promptly to God’s call, who prepare ourselves for what’s ahead, and who follow His direction with faith. May July be a month of quick get up—a time to leave behind what binds us and step boldly into God’s new beginnings.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I come to you in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Thank You for the reminder that Your deliverance often comes suddenly and requires our immediate response. Just as You freed Peter from prison, free us from anything that holds us back. Give us the courage to “get up quickly” when You call, and help us to put on our spiritual clothes and sandals—ready and equipped for the journey ahead. Guide us by Your Spirit, and lead us out of every prison of fear, doubt, or complacency. May we follow You with faith and obedience, trusting in Your perfect timing and direction. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God bless you abundantly.