The Book of Revelation Devotions Day 13

DAY 13

Some of the truths spoken in these love letters to the churches in Revelation are hard to hear and can seem harsh. So why do I call them love letters?

Jesus himself explains that in the last letter.

Revelation 3:19 “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.”

We are also reminded of that many other places in the Bible, including in the Old Testament and in Hebrews.

Hebrews 12:5-6 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”

So as hard as the truths are to hear, we can find comfort in the fact that it is because Jesus loves us that He even bothered to send these letters.

In light of that what should our response be?

Rather than crossing our arms and stubbornly resisting or feeling hurt or unsure of our faith, we should open our hearts to see the truth and lean in to the process of correction. When we accept discipline, embrace the truth and lean in we find healing love and grace, not condemnation.

Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so. This truth is most profoundly told not in flowery words of encouragement or flattery, but instead in the transforming Truth that cuts deep into the heart and the discipline we find in the rebukes of Jesus himself. We need to remind ourselves that He loves us too much to let us stay the way we are now. He wants us in His Holy presence in Heaven someday and will do everything He can to make us His radiant Bride.

Jesus, help me not to shy away from your corrections. Help me to have courage to face my sin and the strength to surrender to you. Help me remember that your love for me is what drives you to correct me in the first place.