Daily Reading: 8-23-16
Revelation 3:7-13 New Living Translation (NLT)
Have you ever been falsely accused? In this world, we may find ourselves enduring accusatory comments, nasty rumors, and unkind or even cruel treatment. This treatment can come from unbelievers, as well as professing believers. Just because a person confesses to know Jesus does not mean that person has allowed the Holy Spirit to bring transforming love to his or her soul (mind/will/emotions). When a Spirit-led Christ follower opens his or her mouth, the words are not accusatory. Satan is actually the accuser of those who love Christ.
In his revelation to the Apostle John, we understand Jesus knows when his followers endure trials and remain obedient despite persecution. God knows when our hearts are faithful. That understanding encourages my heart! Let’s read our passage for today; Christ’s message to the church in Philadelphia.
Revelation 3:7-13 The Message to the Church in Philadelphia
7 “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Philadelphia.
This is the message from the one who is holy and true,
the one who has the key of David.
What he opens, no one can close;
and what he closes, no one can open:
8 “I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close. You have little strength, yet you obeyed my word and did not deny me. 9 Look, I will force those who belong to Satan’s synagogue—those liars who say they are Jews but are not—to come and bow down at your feet. They will acknowledge that you are the ones I love.
10 “Because you have obeyed my command to persevere, I will protect you from the great time of testing that will come upon the whole world to test those who belong to this world. 11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take away your crown. 12 All who are victorious will become pillars in the Temple of my God, and they will never have to leave it. And I will write on them the name of my God, and they will be citizens in the city of my God—the new Jerusalem that comes down from heaven from my God. And I will also write on them my new name.
13 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.
Prayer: I am excited about you coming for your Church, Lord. Thank you that nothing about me or my life and experiences escapes your knowledge. I am blessed to know you are aware of how others treat me as your daughter. I trust you to deal with those who would seek to falsely accuse me. Holy Spirit, help me to respond in love so I may be a pillar of strength in your Kingdom who bears your name. In Jesus’ name. Amen.