Devotion

Theme: The New Name
Text: Revelations 2 :12-17

Memory verse ~ Revelations 2: 17
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.”

Our focus today is on the church of Pergamum. It happens to be the third church mentioned. The Lord introduced Himself as, "He who has the sharp two-edged sword." The sharp two-edged sword is the Word of Truth. The truth is one and cannot be altered. The truth pierces deep into us. Most often, it is said, the truth is a bitter pill to swallow. The truth which is a bitter pill to swallow is often what people do not want to come to knowledge or terms with but it cannot be avoided. Just like a pill that must be swallowed, this fact must be taken in, so as to curb a situation. However, because it is a bitter pill, it may hurt or feel uncomfortable to accept. The Word of God is a tool we need to keep us on track (Hebrews 4:11-13).

The church is noted for its faithfulness in the Lord even in the midst of evil people. Are you able to stand firm on the Word of God even when others do not reason in your biblical perspectives? Do you easily give up on the gospel when it does not fit into your current situation? Reassess yourself and get back on track for though others were killed before their very eyes, the Pergamum church did not fail to stand faithfully.

However, the Lord is quick to point their weaknesses: having those who hold the doctrine of Balaam. As a believer, you need to evaluate what you watch, read and listen to. Most people see nothing wrong in signing up for daily horoscope, fortune telling, advertising for condoms and promiscuity, promoting alcoholic drinks and other things. These things amongst others sway us usually off our path of righteousness and become a stumbling block. The best way to be back on track is to repent. For when the sword of Lord's mouth fights against you, it will be unbearable to you. By His Word, the men of disobedience could not enter into His rest ( Hebrews 3:7-19; 4:1-16).

The promises of God are Yes and AMEN! To those who overcome, He will give some of the hidden manna to eat and as well give them a stone on which is written a new name which no one knows except him who receives it. Desire for this name and repent today.

Prayer: Spirit divine, lead me through this evil land and give me grace to overcome every storm of life in Jesus name. AMEN!