“If you have ears, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Revelation 3:6)
Today, and for the next two days, you will read this admonition from the Lord in Revelation: “If you have ears, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.”
If you are a parent or grandparent, or even when observing children generally, you will be very aware of their capacity to listen to or ignore your voice. We have good reasons to call out to our children. It might be a word of advice, instruction, or even a warning. Sometimes, my own children were not quick to listen and pay attention. One of my three children would sometimes respond, “I know”. Another was sometimes quick to debate with us. The other sometimes pretended deafness. We see similar traits in our grandchildren and others — even in grown-up children.
It’s important to listen to what the Spirit is saying to us in the church today. Today’s word contains both a warning and a promise. We need to listen and pay attention to both.
Here’s the warning: Sometimes, we don’t fully listen to the Lord. We might pretend to listen. We might even give lip service to what he asks of us. But sadly, the less we listen, the weaker in faith we become and the more likely we are to succumb to sin. We need to listen and hold fully to what he has taught us. It’s true. It’s good for us. It blesses us.
Here’s the promise: Those who listen and follow the Lord’s word will be blessed to “wear white clothes” — clothes that are clean. We will be blessed to walk with him, and our names will remain in the Book of Life.
In our relationship with the Lord, sometimes we can be like little kids — either listening or not listening to him. It’s far better for us to listen and pay attention, truly be his followers, listen to his word and live.
Prayer
Lord, I will listen to Your Word and follow Your ways as I walk this life. Be with me always, grant me Your mercy when I fail, and lead me on Your path each day of my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
