Saturday, May 21, 2022

A Word to the Church

 


I decided it is time for me to reread the book of Revelation. Right off, God set me on a personal evaluation. 

Revelation 3:22 says,

    "Anyone who is willing to hear should listen to the Spirit and understand what the Spirit is saying to the churches."

This is the last line of the first four chapters in the book of Revelation. It is repeated seven times in those four chapters. Clearly it is important. 

What does the church need to hear? And who is the church?

In each of the seven churches John addresses their strengths and their weaknesses. He gives only one answer to correct their course - listen to the Spirit. 

If we look at the church in these challenging days, it seems clear that many have lost their way. Too many focus on things like appearance, number of attendees, money and building projects, and even trying overly hard not to ruffle feathers. There are additional sins, some too horrible to mention here, though they may soon come to light.

I am no better than any other. I am a sinner, found by my Lord and lifted up out of a pit of despair. He set me on solid ground. I am forever grateful for His mercy toward me. 

God wishes that none, no not one, would be lost. He extends the gift of eternal life to all. But the choice to grasp his outstretched hand is ours to make. When we accept His gift, we become His children. That is so amazing! It is a miracle.

As children of God, we are part of the church. When we first stepped into the new us we were overjoyed and excited to learn all we could. But, as in the Church of Ephesus, over time some became distracted and lost their first love. What a great personal loss and a loss to the world, that looks to the church for direction, encouragement, hope and love. 

Even if we have been distracted or disheartened, we are not lost. The Lord will renew His Spirit within us and then we, the church, can do much to reveal light to the world. We can't conjure up the light - truth is light. We need to know the truth and let it rule in our hearts. And then as it says in Matthew 5:15, "No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket." 

Shine brightly. Be good to yourself. Take time for renewal. Read God's Word and be quiet before Him.

Close your eyes. Quiet your breath. Open your heart. Whisper His name - Jesus. Listen. 

He will speak. He is in you. 

Remember ... we are the church.


Grace and peace to you from God,


Bonnie


6 comments:

  1. Anonymous2:22 PM

    I've been reading Revelation too. I've never gotten much out of it in the past, but this time it has scared the willies out of me. It has been a wake up call.

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    1. It's been a long while since I studied the book, but this feels like the time to refresh my memory and to dig deeper. We don't need to fear, although we may. After all we are human. Hang onto the Lord. He knows everything to come, and he knows us so well he will fulfill our every need. Bless you.

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  2. Anonymous2:32 PM

    Great post. I am sooooo thankful to belong to an alive church with a Pastor who preaches the Word and doesn't just tickle our ears. I also just love that phrase! And you!

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    Replies
    1. I am also blessed with a church and pastor who teaches straight from the Word. And I have a wonderful Christian family there. Hugs to you.

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  3. You have caused me to study Revelation. I see a lot of things going on that cause my concern. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

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    Replies
    1. It is a timely book. So much is going on in this world. Draw close to God. Peace to you.

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