S) "10 Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth."
Revelation 3:10 (NASB)
O) So, this is a huge promise that I've overlooked. God is about to spell out The Tribulation, and here He's telling the church at Philadelphia that they may, very well, escape it altogether. Like many promises from God, it's conditional. Here, protection is granted for those who have kept the work of His perseverance (or steadfastness). In otherwords, they persevered as Christ did (see John 17:6 and 2 Thessalonians 3:5). Will this faithfulness, perseverance, and obedience save us from other trials? I don't know, but Jesus said we should pray to avoid the end times, so this is a promise worth pursuing, even if it only escapes the last trials.
A) So, I should strive to persevere, first of all. Holding fast to the Word is a worthwhile, fruitful pursuit anyway, but this is a new layer of motivation. It's a hard thing, though, to be motivated by an event that still seems far off. Ultimately, though, no one knows the day or hour. So, I will continue to pursue the steadfastness of Christ, and pray that I am part of the church at Philadelphia, that I am spared from the trials of the end times.
P) Father, let me be found in perseverance according to the Word of Jesus Christ. Holy Spirit, continue to lead me in all things, in all areas of my life, but especially speak to me concerning my steadfastness in the word of God. Show me where I've faltered and warn me before I slip. Strengthen me to persevere and strive to protect the righteousness within me. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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