What stands out to me as I read this chapter is that each of these churches has strengths are areas of sin. Aren't each of us just like that? God can see those places where we honor the Lord and show our faith in God and love for God. But each of us also has things that God could hold against us. Some area where we fall short or are making choices that disappoint God.
What I like about these letters is that none of them end with a listing of faults and condemnation. No, they end with opportunity to move into correct living and be in greater alignment with the will of God. Followed by a statement of discipline for those who don't repent and a statement of victory for those who come into alignment with God.
I love that each letter ends with a statement of victory! God is always speaking that into our life. yes, we screw up, and yes, we need forgiveness for our sins, but God does not trap us in that place. God is always calling us to change and become more and more like the person God created us to be. When God corrects us, it is not for the sake of condemnation, it is for the sake of calling us into greater holiness!
Like these churches, let us hear what God has against us and use that to grow and become closer to the Lord!
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