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Wednesday January 21 - Faithful no matter what
“Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who
dwell on the earth.” Revelation 3:10
The faithfulness of the Philadelphian church would be rewarded. They had remained true to the message – “my word” – which called for endurance. They had persevered and continued to acknowledge Jesus amid fearful opposition. As a result, Jesus promised to keep them from the time of testing that was coming upon the world. We find here the notion that things will become more difficult before the end comes.
The challenge to believers, preceding the second coming of Christ, will intensify as history draws to a close. At first glance this “hour of trial” seems to apply to everyone in the world without exception, but the context indicates that the testing is particularly for unbelievers. Some suggest that Christians will be immune to the suffering predicted, perhaps ‘beamed up’, thus escaping any hardship. This has never been the testimony of the church, in any age, since the first advent of Christ. It is more persuasive, however, to say that believers are preserved, guarded, and protected by God amid the testing. Jesus’ words in John 17:15 make this clear: “I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one.” Perhaps here we have an allusion to Daniel 12:1, where God’s people will escape the time of tribulation, not by being removed from the world but by persevering despite suffering (Daniel 12:10).
Father, may I be conscious of your sweet presence to uphold me in every trial for your glory. Amen!
Thursday January 22 - Our crowning glory
“I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no-one may seize
your crown.” Revelation 3:11
Jesus declares that he is coming soon – a recurring theme in Revelation. The reference here is probably to his second coming, as it seems to bring to an end the suffering that believers must endure. Believers must always be ready for Jesus to return, showing their preparedness by persevering in the faith, holding on to the faith they have professed. The scriptures emphasise the Christian’s need of readiness, rather than the exact time of his appearing. A wholehearted expectation and longing for him should characterise the daily lives of his people.
Those who persevere will receive a crown, and the crown, as in Revelation 2:10, signifies their everlasting reward: eternal life. I remember my school motto, ‘finis opus coronat’, which is roughly translated ‘the end crowns the work.’ This ‘joy set before us’, the joy of our being eternally with Christ in glory, should inspire and fortify us every day. ‘Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable (one)’ (1 Corinthians 9:25); ‘Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him’ (James 1:12); ‘And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away’ (1 Peter 5:4). May the prospect of this glorious end enable you to finish strong!
Father, may I ever keep before me the heavenly prize when seeking to persevere. Amen.
PRAYER FOR TODAY
PRAYER FOR TODAY
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