Laodicea: Word Ambassadors: Prayers and Poetry

Reading: Revelation 3: 14-22

“I wish that you were either cold or hot. So, because you are lukewarm, … I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”

Tepid—indifferent—couldn’t care less—unenthusiastic—perfunctory. All of these adjectives for lukewarm can easily be applied to various chores I’d like to avoid but need to take responsibility for. And they will get done eventually and most likely half-heartedly.

Unless, I’m preparing for a special occasion, or friends or family dropping by, and then suddenly I’m humming as I work or happily energetic. Suddenly it’s not a task motive—but a heart one.

Likewise we can become so used to using our gifts and talents in particular ministries that we think we have it all under control, when instead we’re working by rote. Not realizing that our actions have become external habits instead of internal heart compassion. We’re more focused on the tasks to be completed that the purpose behind them.

And we become extremely offended if anyone should question us. Even when the Spirit tries to intercede and nudges us into paying attention that we’ve gotten off course. Or become too comfortable with our programs.

“Listen! I am standing at the door knocking;”

Whether as individuals or a community we’re not supposed to work under our own steam and under our own agendas. Especially when we think we’ve got it all under control. We don’t see what the Lord sees except we look through His lens and His counsel.

Lord, please keep our hearts, our sight, and our hearing attuned to Your purpose. Keep us from becoming tepid believers.

Psalm of Worship: Isaiah 55:2

“Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread,

and your labor for that which does not satisfy?

Listen carefully to me and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food.”

Reflection Philadelphia: Word Ambassadors: Prayers and Poetry

Reflection Questions

1.     Why does it take courage to walk through God’s open doors?

2.     Do you always trust in His promise? Why, or why not?

3.     Is there a door you are hoping God will unlock for you?

4.     Have you asked for His power or have you been trying to open it on our own?  Why?

Share: What are you holding fast to until Jesus comes?

Philadelphia: Word Ambassadors: Prayers and Poetry

Reading: Revelations 3:7-13

“Look, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word, and have not denied my name.”

How can we discern whether a door is closed by the Lord’s protection, or a door He waits for us to open in faith?

How often do we ignore open doors and assume they are for someone else?

Too often I have allowed personal fear and anxiety to keep me from new opportunities, or persuaded myself the door isn’t opening for me.

Yet, His word here promises He will not let anyone shut the door if He has chosen it.  Then He waits for us to choose. He does not force us—or bully us—or condemn us—or lie to us.

Look. First we need to be willing to see. To acknowledge His guidance.

Powerless. Then recognize our weakness. To accept His power instead of our own.

Courage. “I am coming soon, hold fast to what you have.”

Key. His key alone locks and unlocks.

Promise. His word—His name.

Love. His is Eternal.

Lord, please give us courage to listen, to see, to respond, and to walk.

Psalm of Worship: Isaiah 55:1

“Ho, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters;

and you that have no money, come, buy and eat!

Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

Tabernacle

Door of Tabernacle

Entrance to God’s presence

door barred

only open to High Priest

on occasion.

Except by Christ’s framework

door opened

always to everyone

access way, truth, life.

John 10:9. “I am the gate.”