Focus
Slow your breathing and become aware of the taking in and letting out of your breath. Focus on putting things aside so you will be open to what God is saying to you today.
Read
Revelation 2:12-17
12 “And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword:
13 “I know where you are living, where Satan’s throne is. Yet you are holding fast to my name, and you did not deny your faith in me even in the days of Antipas my witness, my faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan lives. 14 But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the people of Israel, so that they would eat food sacrificed to idols and practice fornication. 15 So you also have some who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Repent then. If not, I will come to you soon and make war against them with the sword of my mouth. 17 Let anyone who has an ear listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches. To everyone who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give a white stone, and on the white stone is written a new name that no one knows except the one who receives it.
Reflect
This chapter of Revelations contains several letters to churches. Each church has problems as God sees it. Some things never change! In today’s world, we still have some of the same problems that are described in this passage. There are many distractions in today’s world that will keep us from worshiping our God. Individually, we may have even more than the church as a whole.
One distraction that I have when I attend a worship service is if the piano has not been tuned recently. I know that may sound odd to some. However, to me, a piano that is not on pitch is very similar to fingernails scratching a chalkboard. This is partly because I am a piano technician. I feel a piano needs to be on pitch for the congregation to sing its best and it is more pleasant to the ear, therefore more worshipful. If my church’s piano is off pitch, I know I am making another trip to church that week to fix it.
What are your distractions? Whatever they are, there is God’s grace that will get you back on track.
Pray
Heavenly Father, We know there are many distractions in life. Please help us personally and as a church to stay focused on you as we strive to fulfill your will. In your Son’s name we pray, Amen.
Go with God!