May 8: THE WORKING OF HIS MIGHTY POWER (part 2)

“I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.” Revelation 3:18

Five very descriptive words for the last-day church were issued from the mouth of the Savior through the pen of John the Apostle: wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked (v.17). It seems incredulous that anyone could be in such a state without knowing it. But in our sinful state, there is a bent toward denial of our sinfulness and its consequence. The Lord’s counsel here is incredibly important. It bears highlighting that the best that this broken world has to offer cannot compare to the glories that Jesus has for us. The well-to-do people of Laodicea were very pleased with themselves. These five adjectives should beg the question: as compared to what?

Jesus drew parallels from prominent objects in the city’s culture to illustrate spiritual truths. Laodicea’s favorable location* on the Roman road system contributed heavily to their successful commercial trade and created the need for a banking system there. A large quantity of gold was stored there.

To truly contemplate the glory of heaven and purity of character required to live there, as God has laid out in His word, causes one to wonder how such great and priceless prizes could become his. With what can he buy from [Jesus]? The good news of the gospel message includes the joyful proclamation that heavenly treasures are available to everyone! “You who have no money, come, buy, and eat…without money and without price.” This invitation is for “Everyone who thirsts” saying, “Come to the waters” meaning come to Jesus Himself, “the water of life.” (Isaiah 55:1, Revelation 22:17). The joy of heaven, more than we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20) is made freely available. But only the ones who realize that they are poor, blind, and naked will actually ask for and receive it.

Gaining the riches of heaven, which we cannot see, calls for the humiliation of relinquishing pride. And this is the one thing we dread doing the most. Now, think of the degradation and disgrace of the cross of Christ. Think of His unspeakable love for you. Do you love Him back? If so, ask for the Spirit which is His to activate your mind and open your spiritual eyes to the firm reality and lasting nature of heaven. This broken world is disintegrating and decaying right before our eyes, yet this is what a “practical person” equates with reality. Resolve today to do the ‘impractical thing’ and humble yourself.

…while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6

For further study: James 4:10; 1 Peter 1:7-8; John 20:29; Colossians 3:2

*This favorable location can be compared to Laodicea’s ‘time location’ just after Philadelphia’s glowing example