August 29, 2013 (Ezekiel 4-7; Revelation 3)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “All who are victorious will be clothed in white. I will never erase their names from the Book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and His angels that they are mine.” Revelation 3:5 NLT
Observation: Messages were sent to seven churches. Each message was personal to that particular church’s position and performance. Yet there was one common theme in each message to every church. Holiness was required and expected. Not just a half-hearted commitment to living for Christ, but a full time 24/7 dedication until the very end. Some churches were commended in the areas where they were thriving, five of the churches were condemned for their failures that would not be accepted or overlooked. The two churches, Smyrna and Philadelphia, were encouraged to continue in faithfulness and hold on to what strength they had. The Smyrna church was going to face suffering but was promised a “Crown of Life” if they remained faithful. The Philadelphia church was encouraged to hold on to what they had so that no one would take away their Crown. The other five churches were told to repent and turn back to God like at first.
Application: As I read through Revelation chapter’s two and three I see something that was said to every church at the end of the message given. Everyone who is victorious (2:7), whoever is victorious (2:11), to everyone who is victorious (2:17), to all who are victorious (2:26), all who are victorious (3:5), all who are victorious (3:12), those who are victorious (3:21). It appears that being victorious is pretty important. It also implies that we are in a struggle, fight, or war and we must be victorious to receive the things that were promised to everyone that is victorious. What will those that are victorious receive? Fruit from the Tree of Life, not harmed by the second death, hidden Manna and a white stone with a new name, authority over all nations, clothed in white, will become pillars of the Temple, privileged to sit with Jesus on His throne. The blessings of the victorious are too great to forfeit by loose living. We must dedicate, or rededicate ourselves today and remain faithful until the very end. Jesus promised it would be worth it, and I believe Him!
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me everyday. Thank You for Your word that teaches me the importance of being victorious! Thank You for the strength You have given me, help me hold on to that which I have until the very end. Find me faithful and steadfast I pray. Thank You for the desire You give me to learn and grow in grace. In Jesus name, Amen!