As we struggle with our own sins and weaknesses, and see the effect of sin in the world around us, it would be easy to give in to discouragement and despair. In fine rhetorical style Paul lifts us above our discouragement, and assures us that the power of God's love is always more powerful than any human weakness or sin could ever be. God even gave up His Son for our sake, holding nothing back. Rather than be pessimistic, we should be joyful and hopeful. We cannot lose with God; God is always one step ahead of us.

"Being awake" is a biblical metaphor that illustrates what it means to be vigilant spiritually and sensitively aware of God's presence. Many people work themselves into a real panic trying to figure out when the Lord will come again. We don't know and it isn't important! We are not playing a hide-and-seek game with God, for our spirituality is one of relationship. A relationship must be continually nourished or it withers away. Jesus asks us to live in the joyfulness of each moment, united with God in such a way that we are ready to meet Him whenever He comes or whenever death might overtake us. We need only open our minds and hearts, and not let weariness and the cares of life deaden our spiritual senses. Before you go to bed, try to recall the ways in which God has been present to you and thank Him.