Devotion

Theme: The Crown of Life
Text: Revelations 2:8-11

Memory verse ~ Revelations 2:11
"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death."

The second identified church is, Smyrna believed to be the persecuted church. The Lord therefore, identifies Himself as the First and the Last, to emphasize that, at the end of all things, He has the final say. To soothe it better, He stated, He was dead( to atone for our sins) and came to life (resurrected to give us hope of a new life having conquered death) 1 Corinthians 15:26.

The works of the church of Smyrna has been noted. Even their tribulations and neglect of the physical wealth. They are rich because they are coheirs in the kingdom with Christ. They possess gifts far richer than earthly wealth that will be eaten by moth. Dear beloved, the Bible is not saying that we should be poor or not work. Rather, we should not take pride in showing off our wealth.

In our churches today, some have not yet established their relationship with the Lord. They often assume they are born into Christian homes and so are Christians. Their hearts are far from the will of God (Isaiah 29:13 & Matthew 15:8). And most often hold on to false teaching and doctrines.

Persecution are bound to come our ways in diverse folds, yet we should not be discouraged in doing the Father's will. We will be given the crown of life  if we remain faithful. This crown of life will not permit us to taste the second death. Indeed death has been conquered through Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, grand us grace to withstand every persecution and favor to be crowned with the crown of life. AMEN!