DON’T LIVE IN NAME ONLY
Saturday, June 12, 2021
And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead (Revelation 3:1).
Jesus said concerning the church in Sardis, “…thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.” The church lived in name only, but was dead. It’s like living in history. The death mentioned here isn’t total death. It’s a state where, even though there’re still works and activities, there’s so much apathy and “spiritlessness.”
Being alive in name only isn’t a good thing. Some nations and churches are like that. They have a name of a living church, or are recognised in the comity of nations, but they’re dead. This can also happen to an individual, because churches and nations are made up of individuals.
A worship leader, for instance, could sing and people would think he’s alive, but he knows that he struggles to pray, doesn’t fast, and no longer reads the Bible. God wants everyone in this position to repent. The Master’s instruction to such folks is to be watchful and strengthen the things that are ready to die. That’s quite interesting.
For that worship leader, it may be the singing that’s ready to die and he or she doesn’t know it. So, fan the embers of your desire for the Lord and the things of the Spirit. Be aglow and afire for Him always. Pray often. Win souls. Study and meditate on the Word. Be watchful and strengthen these things. Be fervent in spirit, serving the Lord in truth.
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PRAYER:
Dear Father, I serve you in truth, according to your Word. I remain focused, to excel in your service. My passion for your work and the things of the Spirit are fuelled continually by the Holy Spirit. I’m fervent in spirit, serving you with joy and bringing glory to your precious Name. Thank you for making me eternally triumphant, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY:
Colossians 3:23-24 And whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; 24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
Romans 12:11-12 AMPC Never lag in zeal and in earnest endeavor; be aglow and burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord. 12 Rejoice and exult in hope; be steadfast and patient in suffering and tribulation; be constant in prayer.
DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Acts 3:1-26 & 2 Chronicles 12-15
2-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Luke 1:11-25 & Deuteronomy 10
