In the book of Revelation Jesus gives a series of warnings to churches. When Jesus warns you, you had better take notice!

Then he comes to the church in Philadelphia. (This would have been located in modern-day Turkey, not Pennsylvania).

His tone changes. Here is what Jesus says: “I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name” (Revelation 3:8).

That jumped off the page to me. There are times when Jesus speaks a strong word of correction and warning. There are other times when he sees into the heart and gives a life-giving word of encouragement. This was one of those times. 

He saw that they had “little strength.” And yet, they had kept his word; they did not deny his name. He praised them! He said that as a result, they would be rewarded. They would get a crown and Jesus would write the very name of God on them!

Are there times when you feel as if your strength is zapped? Probably. But God doesn’t require you to be a superhero. As with the Philadelphians, so with us: Keep Jesus’ word. Do not deny his name.

God sees. And he will reward those who remain true to him. 

And that includes you.

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Notes and extra content:

–“Spiritual Gifts 103: All Hands on Deck.” Sermon on Ephesians 4:1-16, explaining the “power gifts,” and asking, Where do we go from here? January 28, 2024. Click here.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.