The Open Door
I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. ~Revelation 3:8
An open door represents accessibility. It is an invitation to enter. It also speaks to us about an opportunity that is available, but possibly limited. Our devotion this morning is about a message that the Lord Jesus Christ gave to the church that was at Philadelphia. The message that Jesus gave to this church was one that was commendable, and it was also a commission.
We see the Savior’s observation.
Jesus said, “I know thy works.” This statement can be satisfying, or it can be sobering. He knows what we are doing and what we are not doing. He knows what works we are doing, how well we are doing them, and what our objective is in doing them. He knows if we are doing the right works, the wrong works, or if the work is minimal. In the case of this church, I believe this was a church filled with believers who were doing the works that pleased the Lord. He knew their material, their methods, and their motives. What does Jesus know about your works?
We see a substantial opportunity.
He said, “I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” That encourages me. The Lord saw a church that was faithfully doing His work. He opened doors that they had prayed for. He opened doors to preach the gospel to more people. He opened doors for missionaries to be sent out. He made open pathways. He unlocked doors that previously were closed. In addition, His providential involvement encouraged the church that no man could shut those doors. What an opportunity! The doors that God opens, no man can shut. Here, Jesus saw a church that was faithful, and He made sure that the opportunities that He gave them would not be hindered.
We see a submissive obedience.
He said, “For thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.” Here was a church that was little in strength. Our size and strength are no matter to Him. God works best where there is weakness and complete dependence upon Him. This church was obedient. It obeyed His Word. An obedient church is a church whose light is shining brightly in the darkness of this world. This was a church that was not ashamed of His name. No wonder the Lord set an open door before them. In spite of their small stature, they held up the name of the Lord in high esteem.
The door is wide open! The Lord opens doors for us when we faithfully obey His Word, proclaim His gospel truth unashamedly, and make the most of our opportunities. The life of faith demands that we give our best and our all. Are you praying for some open doors? Look to the pattern of the church at Philadelphia, and trust God for open doors!
Have an open-door God Morning!
Bible Reading Schedule: Lamentations 3-5