Hard Hearts

Write to the angel of the church in Sardis:
"The One who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars says: I know your works; you have a reputation for being alive, but you are dead. Be alert and strengthen what remains, which is about to die, for I have not found your works complete before My God. Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; keep it, and repent. But if you are not alert, I will come like a thief, and you have no idea at what hour I will come against you. But you have a few people in Sardis who have not defiled their clothes, and they will walk with me in white, because they are worthy. In the same way, the victor will be dressed in white clothes, and I will never erase his name from the book of life but will acknowledge his name before My Father and before His angels.
Anyone who has an ear should listen to what the Spirit says to the churches. Revelation 3:1-6

Reputation does not mean much. It may tickle some ears and excite the shallow but the One who really matters sees below the veneer.

Sardis was one of the most ancient places in Asia. The original site was established in 1500BC. However this original site was destroyed in an earthquake. Alexander the Great helped re-establish it.
The people of Sardis had a habit of being caught unaware. Twice they were conquered because they failed to be vigilant regarding their enemies.

It appears their history was dictating their blindness to their spiritual poverty and impending doom. Jesus was coming to remove them should they fail to repent. Deciding that you have enough and not being open to instruction is dangerous. You will not see the train coming and as a consequence lose your life.

The ability to repent is a beautiful gift that is available to us as God's children yet a hardened heart goes before destruction. Just because we think we are ok and because we have convinced others we are great does not mean it is the truth. What is Jesus saying? It is His opinion that is important after all.

Stay soft and teachable because the rewards are eternal and so are the consequences of a hard heart. Amen!

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