Wednesday, 2018-11-28

Bible Reference: Revelation 3:10-11
Translation: The Living Bible (TLB)

Bible Text: ¹⁰ “Because you have patiently obeyed me despite the persecution, therefore I will protect you from the time of Great Tribulation and temptation,^[d] which will come upon the world to test everyone alive. ¹¹ Look, I am coming soon!^[e]Hold tightly to the little strength you have—so that no one will take away your crown.

OBSERVATION: As part of the letters to the seven churches, God told the church in Philadelphia that they were strong, and because of that and their efforts to be faithful, in spite of the persecution aimed at them, then He would protect them and hold them close to Himself. They could therefore hold tightly to that promise knowing that they have assurance that their crown of acceptance, joy and peace with God will not be taken away! Wow, what a promise!  

APPLICATION: No doubt we have all been the recipient of promises from our parents, or perhaps our siblings, or even our workplace, but have you ever been promised a crown just for being obedient and faithful? Oh and the promise that no one will take that crown away from you, because the Master of this universe has His hand of protection on you and on your crown? Friends, I believe that God still says to the church in our own communities, that love God and have remained faithful to His Word, that we should hang tight, for in due time, in spite of our ups and downs, our God will follow through with His promise for us. I have no idea if there will be a literal crown for all of God’s princes and princesses that He will welcome home, but it is enough for me to know that to enter the gates of heaven where my Savior, my God, my Redeemer and my everlasting King resides, and to find a final place of peace and everlasting worship to our God – oh that, yes that will be all the glory that would overwhelm me! Recognizing that God, the King of all kings, is my heavenly Father, and that as His son I would naturally be a prince, then what difference would it make if I have a crown or not? Oh I want to see Him, look upon His face, listen to the rest of the song and rejoice as you reflect on your eternal home – praise the name of our Almighty King, Jesus Christ our Lord!

PRAYER: Thank You Lord for saving my soul, thank You Lord for making me whole, thank You Lord for giving to me, Thy great salvation, so rich and free.  Precious Lord, entering heaven is a glorious day that all of Your children anxiously awaits. We really need Your help in seeing us through this life, where we could impact so many for Your kingdom, and then walk through those pearly gates locked arms as siblings of the King. Thank You for the opportunity to serve, and for the promise of our heavenly home! AMEN!