Strengthen What Remains

Strengthen What Remains

Revelation 3:1-2 (NIV®)

“I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God.”

Jesus gave specific messages for seven very different churches. He wanted the congregation in Sardis to know He was aware of their deeds, but they were not what they seemed. He was aware they had a reputation of being alive, but in His eyes they were dead. They had done what many churches do—they had created a façade of religious activity that covered up a spiritually-dead congregation. Jesus had not given up on them, however, and He encouraged them to wake up and strengthen what remained. Jesus sent this message to Sardis, but He also intended it for “whoever has ears to hear” (Revelation 3:22). We can be assured Jesus knows everything we are doing—and not doing—as well as our motivations. I encourage you to examine your deeds and your motives in light of Jesus’ words. Then, begin reshaping your life—removing what is unworthy and strengthening what is worth hanging on to.

THINK ABOUT IT

Ask the Lord if there are any places in your life where you need to wake up spiritually. His Holy Spirit will help when you ask.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, forgive me for where I have been asleep and unaware. Deliver me from deception and into Your truth. Help me strengthen what remains so I might stand in Your authority and walk uprightly before You in faithfulness and obedience. In Jesus’ name, amen.