Read Revelation 3:12-13 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
- What word picture is used to describe those who are victorious?
- Where will they be citizens?
- What will be written on them?
Reflect
When this letter was written, Christians in Philadelphia weren’t accepted anywhere. Jesus used a cultural detail to show them what was promised if they persevered. Pillars held up the buildings and temples in Philadelphia, and they had the names of prominent people carved into them. Jesus assured these believers that they may not be celebrated now, but there would come a day when their names would be on the pillars of an eternal temple. They would be citizens in a new city.
This promise awaits us too. If we persevere, we can be assured that our names will be on the pillars of an eternal temple. We will be citizens in the city of God. This means we can rest assured that we have entry into His presence, both then and now. We can retain our citizenship because He is faithful to forgive us when we repent before Him (1 John 1:9).
How can you look suffering in the face with confidence, grace, and joy? It’s found in letting God strengthen you with hope. Explore the promises of God, and remember that they apply to you today.
Respond
Have you faced any suffering that made you doubt God’s promises? How does today’s reading encourage you?
What do you look forward to most about the new citizenship that awaits you in heaven? How can you keep that in front of your perspective today?
What promises of God are especially encouraging to you in your current season of life? How can you remind yourself of them throughout the week? Explore some of the following promises in your Bible.
Pray through today's reading, and write down what God is prompting you to do next. Share with a friend, and take a step to apply it.