The White Stone
Today’s Verse:
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. ~Revelation 2:17
Some people are collectors of stones. They collect stones that are colorful. They collect stones that are dated back to a different era. In some cases, they use these stones as decoration pieces in construction. This morning, we see in our devotion a reference to the Lord Jesus giving a white stone to the overcomer.
We see an acquittal.
Back in those days, a white stone was given by a judge to a person on trial to indicate he was acquitted of a crime or wrongdoing. In contrast, a black stone given to a person on trial meant that he was guilty. The white stone is a blessing because it speaks of us no longer being under the penalty of sin. It speaks to the fact that our sins have been exonerated and expunged. Exoneration means that we are cleared of all wrong doing. Expunged means that the accusations made us against us have been taken out of our file, and there is no record we ever did the things we were accused of. What a wonderful feeling to know that our sins are forgiven and forgotten by the Lord.
We see an acquisition.
White stones were awarded to victors of an athletic contest. These white stones served as a ticket for admission for the awards banquet or feast that all victors were invited to attend. It is a thrilling picture of the award celebration for believers who lay their crowns at Jesus’ feet in Heaven and the gold, silver, and precious stones of our works on earth that made it through the test of fire. We must give heed to our lives on earth and live in anticipation of being found faithful at the Judgment Seat of Christ. It is a sobering reminder that we must abide in Him so that when He shall appear, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.
We see an acquaintance.
“In this stone a new name is written, which no man knoweth saving he that received it.” This name speaks of the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We identify with His name as our Savior, Redeemer, God, and Lord on Earth. His name on earth is everything to you and me. He is our righteousness, our peace, the anchor of our soul, Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Prince of Peace, the Everlasting Father, the Living Word, the Lily of the Valley, the Rose of Sharon, the Lord our Shepherd, the Bread of Life, the Living Water, the Door, the True Vine, and our Lord. One day in eternity when we permanently are in His presence, He is our King of kings, Lord of lords, the Sun of Righteousness, our Bright and Morning Star, and the One Who is forever and forever. This stone will not be exchanged, never tarnish, and never be taken out of our possession. It represents our relationship with our Savior and King.
Live your life as an overcomer. We must not allow the trends of the day, the drift in society, and the apostasy around us to distract us from winning our race. Our rewards in heaven for overcoming are eternal in nature and give honor to our Lord for His goodness to us. Live your life to receive that white stone one day!
Have a faithful God Morning!
Bible Reading Schedule: Joshua 9-11