He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. (Rev 3:5)
Greetings. It has been a while since I wrote my latest post. Honestly, It feels good to write again and teach about the word of God. In this post, we are going to look at a few things that were an issue with the church of Sardis. These issues were so serious that God was threatening with removing their names from the book of life.
First, Sardis was once a church that was following the Lord and backslid. On the outside, the leadership was still talking about God and, probably, rejoicing and worshipping as normal. God in his wisdom, saw right thru them and saw the condition of their hearts. The Message version gives us a view of what God saw-
“I see right through your work. You have a reputation for vigor and zest, but you’re dead, stone-dead. “Up on your feet! Take a deep breath! Maybe there’s life in you yet. But I wouldn’t know it by looking at your busywork; nothing of God’s work has been completed. Your condition is desperate. Think of the gift you once had in your hands, the Message you heard with your ears—grasp it again and turn back to God. (Rev 3:1-3)
Second, the city of Sardis had great riches. It is believed that they had gold in their rivers. Riches and wealth are great tools to have and God wants us to enjoy his blessing, but they can be a snare to our souls when not used the right way. They can distract us from the ways of God and cause us to be lukewarm in our worship.
Third, it was a heavily fortified city built on a mountain. They had a strong military but they got puffed up in pride. They got so slothful that their guards slacked off. Even after suffering an attack by the Persians, they failed to heed the warning signs. They were, finally, conquered by the Greeks. Years later, They had a devastating earthquake that caused massive damage to that city. God fulfilled his promise of Judgement. (Rev 3:3)
Forth and final point, the Lord acknowledged the faithful ones in Sardis. Beloved, when you see your church fall short, do not immediately pack your bags and seek another church. The Lord might want you to stay there, pray and make a difference in the congregation. God recognized their loyalty and praised them for remaining steadfast. (Rev 3:4-5)
Summing it up, Let us learn from the church of Sardis and their shortcomings. When financial prosperity comes, let us use it wisely as a tool to glorify God. Again, it is not wrong to be rich but do not let it distract you from doing God's will.
Guard your heart against pride. The city of Sardis had great pride in its military and its fortified city. Don't spend time in the past remembering God's glory and testimonies in your life. Strengthen your walk with God and avoid pride.
The last point, be faithful to God. Whether it is in your church, job or marriage, seek the Lord before making a move. Who knows if God can turn your testings into your testimonies? God bless.
Questions to Ponder--
1- Has your worship become routine? Have you slacked off in your worship and allowed distractions to sidetrack you?
2-Are you going back to memory lane and revisiting times when God was truly moving in your life and church? Are you dissatisfied with your church because you feel that something is missing?
3- Are you having trouble with your job, marriage, or even church? Have you given up and have a desire to move on?
Prayer--Dear Lord, Help me to walk in your ways. Examine my heart, O Lord, and speak to me. Please forgive me, Holy Spirit, if I have grieved or quenched you in any way. Show me what things are distracting me from you. Show me areas of pride in my life so I can repent. Help me to be faithful in what you have entrusted me to do. Thank you, Lord, for speaking to me today. In Jesus' name. Amen.
