I’ve always read the seven letters to the churches found in Revelation 2-3 as a kind of challenge and encouragement on how believers should live. The passages are filled with accolades as well as corrections.
A warm pat on the back can be felt when I read:
“You have perseverance and have endured for My name’s sake, and have not grown weary. —Revelation 2:3
“I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.” —Revelation 2:19
Yet my posture stiffens when I read the following admonitions:
“But I have this against you, that you have left your first love.” —Revelation 2:4
“I know your deeds, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.” — Revelation 3:1
Over the years, I’ve found both comfort and conviction within these passages. But as I’ve read this week, I’ve become intrigued by something I’ve never seen before.
The letters close with rich promises and gifts.
Those who obey God, walk in righteousness, and persevere are wildly rewarded. These assurances include:
Indeed, our God is so good and so generous that He lavishes us with loving promises. [Tweet this] Tucked into the list is a commitment to our healing and redemption, wholeness and fullness, life everlasting, a taste of heaven.
Some of the worst advice someone can give you about the book of Revelation is that it’s meant to scare you. Or worse, that you fill your days trying to crack the 666 code.
Sure, it’s easy to get sidetracked by those apocalyptic creatures and visions. But don’t let them distract you.
Keep your eye on the truth that the Book of Revelation is yet another way of God saying, “I love you. I love you. I love you.” [Tweet this]
And inviting you deeper into a relationship with Him than you’ve ever been before.
