By Rev. Leroy Wimbush
Pastor, Fresh Harvest Christian Church (D.O.C.)
Revelations 3:7-13
John the Apostle is speaking to the church of Philadelphia. This church is one of the newest of the seven churches mentioned in this Book of the Bible. The church of Philadelphia had been faithful and committed to their faith. At this point in the scripture, they are being lauded and encouraged with the words of the Apostle that they would be able to withstand adversity that would surely come.
Focus on verse 8. “I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.” We find that Jesus has made a promise. If Jesus makes a promise you can take it to the bank. He cannot lie and that which he said he would do, will do, He shall do.
Rough times are coming, but God’s children need not to worry. How do we know? Look in verse 10. “Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.”
Many of us are looking at the current situation of this country as a glimpse of the change that is occurring. I recently saw a television broadcast where several young-in-age preachers agreed that church would not be as we have known it in the past. Their belief is that worshippers would not return to the four walls of traditional church but would remain online only. Sure, I believe that there will be those that will listen to sermons and watch church online. I also believe there will be those that will love drive-in church to the point of making it their Sunday morning worship norm. Rough times are coming but God’s children need not to worry. Jesus promised that he would keep us from the trial that is going to come to the whole world. We must keep the faith. We must hold on and patiently endure.
Greater testing is coming. We must be very careful what we say. We must be careful of giving life to situations which we do not fully understand or make us fearful. Remember, the power of life and death is in the tongue. Recall the story of Zechariah. Zechariah doubted the words of the angel Gabriel who told him that he and his wife, Elizabeth, would have a son. Zechariah spoke disbelief and because of this he was unable to speak. Once Zechariah acknowledged the promise that was made (the birth and naming of his son, John) he was able to speak. Solomon wrote “you are snared by the words of your mouth; you are taken by the words of your mouth.” (Proverbs: 6:3). Guard your tongue. When in doubt, lean to the scriptures, to the promises of Jesus. Remember; Jesus cannot lie and if He promised it, you can be sure it will come to past.
Verse 13, Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.” Listen to what the Spirit of the Lord is saying. People have their opinions. People have their fears and doubts which they tend to impress upon others. Again, I say, my brothers and sisters, listen to what the Spirit of the Lord is saying. Stay focused on His word. Keep going; keeping praying; remain faithful. We will make it through the test if we remain faithful and obedient to the Word of God. Stay focused and persevere.
