Definition:
Spiritual wakefulness refers to the state of being alert and vigilant in one's spiritual life, maintaining a conscious awareness of God's presence, and being prepared for the return of Jesus Christ. It involves a continuous readiness to respond to God's call and to live in accordance with His will.

Biblical Basis:
The concept of spiritual wakefulness is deeply rooted in Scripture, where believers are frequently admonished to remain watchful and alert. In the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes the importance of staying awake spiritually in anticipation of His second coming. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus warns, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come" (Matthew 24:42). This call to vigilance is echoed in the parable of the ten virgins, where Jesus illustrates the necessity of being prepared for the bridegroom's arrival (Matthew 25:1-13).

The Apostle Paul also underscores the importance of spiritual wakefulness in his epistles. In 1 Thessalonians 5:6, he writes, "So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober" . Paul contrasts spiritual wakefulness with spiritual lethargy, urging believers to live in the light and to be alert to the spiritual realities around them.

Characteristics of Spiritual Wakefulness:
1. Alertness to Spiritual Dangers: Spiritual wakefulness involves being aware of the spiritual dangers and temptations that can lead one away from God. Peter advises, "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8).

2. Readiness for Christ's Return: A key aspect of spiritual wakefulness is living in anticipation of Christ's return. Believers are called to be like servants waiting for their master's return, as Jesus describes in Luke 12:35-40. This readiness involves living a life that reflects the values of the Kingdom of God.

3. Prayerfulness: Prayer is a vital component of spiritual wakefulness. Jesus instructs His disciples to "watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation" (Matthew 26:41). Through prayer, believers maintain a close relationship with God and receive the strength to remain vigilant.

4. Discernment: Spiritual wakefulness requires discernment to recognize God's voice and to distinguish it from the distractions and deceptions of the world. The writer of Hebrews encourages believers to train their senses to discern good from evil (Hebrews 5:14).

5. Active Faith: Being spiritually awake means actively living out one's faith through obedience to God's commands and service to others. James reminds believers that faith without works is dead (James 2:26), highlighting the necessity of an active, living faith.

Practical Implications:
Spiritual wakefulness calls for a lifestyle that prioritizes spiritual growth and maturity. It involves regular engagement with Scripture, participation in communal worship, and a commitment to personal holiness. Believers are encouraged to cultivate habits that foster spiritual alertness, such as regular prayer, meditation on God's Word, and fellowship with other believers.

In the context of the church, spiritual wakefulness is essential for maintaining doctrinal purity and for being a light to the world. The church is called to be vigilant against false teachings and to uphold the truth of the Gospel.

Conclusion:
While spiritual wakefulness is a personal responsibility, it is also a communal endeavor. Believers are called to encourage one another in their spiritual journey, spurring each other on toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24-25). Through mutual support and accountability, the body of Christ can remain spiritually awake and ready for the Lord's return.