A Promise of Courage
“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” - Revelation 3:15-16
Historically, Laodicea was a leading commercial city due to its proximity on a main trading route, enabling the people to become wealthy as a result. The problem with the church of Laodicea was that they started to define themselves by their wealth and resources, and it caused many to develop a spirit of arrogance and haughtiness. They had all the material resources necessary, but they lacked the character to go with it.
As a consequence, their money prevented them from taking a stance in times of challenge. They were “neither hot nor cold.” Their elitism and their resources caused them to become enamored with the world’s definition of success; they were blessed, but their lack of courage prevented them from using their blessings to be a blessing.
They would do anything for clout, but they didn’t use their clout to make impactful change. They did not have the courage to make a difference when it was most needed. There is much to learn from the church at Laodicea.
So many of us today have been blessed with resources, gifts, and abilities. God has purposefully aligned the circumstances of our life. The experiences that have shaped us, the people in our lives who have most influenced us, the resources around us, and the gifts within us were all uniquely provided so that God could do an amazing work within us.
Though they might be in different forms, and to different degrees, we all have experiences, influence, resources, and gifts that have been given to us. But so many live their entire lives never making the difference God intended for them to make because they lack the courage—the courage to go for their dreams, to stand up for righteousness, and to chase what God has intended for them.
Step out with courage today. God promises to give you what you need. Follow His will with the courage He provides. Just be prepared. You have no idea what He can do when you step out on faith!
Historically, Laodicea was a leading commercial city due to its proximity on a main trading route, enabling the people to become wealthy as a result. The problem with the church of Laodicea was that they started to define themselves by their wealth and resources, and it caused many to develop a spirit of arrogance and haughtiness. They had all the material resources necessary, but they lacked the character to go with it.
As a consequence, their money prevented them from taking a stance in times of challenge. They were “neither hot nor cold.” Their elitism and their resources caused them to become enamored with the world’s definition of success; they were blessed, but their lack of courage prevented them from using their blessings to be a blessing.
They would do anything for clout, but they didn’t use their clout to make impactful change. They did not have the courage to make a difference when it was most needed. There is much to learn from the church at Laodicea.
So many of us today have been blessed with resources, gifts, and abilities. God has purposefully aligned the circumstances of our life. The experiences that have shaped us, the people in our lives who have most influenced us, the resources around us, and the gifts within us were all uniquely provided so that God could do an amazing work within us.
Though they might be in different forms, and to different degrees, we all have experiences, influence, resources, and gifts that have been given to us. But so many live their entire lives never making the difference God intended for them to make because they lack the courage—the courage to go for their dreams, to stand up for righteousness, and to chase what God has intended for them.
Step out with courage today. God promises to give you what you need. Follow His will with the courage He provides. Just be prepared. You have no idea what He can do when you step out on faith!
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