Revelation 3; Nehemiah 4; Psalm 98

“I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” (Revelation 3:8 NKJV)

When we think of doors in the book of the Revelation, our minds turn to the “sweet” picture of Jesus standing outside the door, knocking, hoping that we’ll let him in, based on the letter to the next church. (Laodicea) In this letter, Jesus described Himself as the one who opens and no one shuts, or the one who shuts and no one opens. He tells the Philadelphian Church that He’s left them an open door in the midst of a message that is completely positive. What did this church do? They used what little strength they had to follow Jesus; they stayed true to God’s word; and in the midst of persecution, they remained faithful in proclaiming the name of Jesus. Their reward would be protection from an even greater persecution and they shall be pillars in the Temple of God.

We often talk about closed doors preventing us from doing the work we believe God has for us. The church at Philadelphia had an open door that no one could shut. Jesus let them know that the opportunity to do His work for the kingdom of God couldn’t be stopped by anything people could do to them because of their faithfulness. I wonder what Jesus would say to the church today. Would He remind us that He can open any door and let us know that He’s set an open door before us, or would He talk about knocking on our door, since we won’t come out on our own, and coming in if we decided to let Him in. For too long we’ve romanticized about Jesus coming in to sup with us if we open the door. From now on, whenever we think of doors, let’s remember that Jesus has given us an open door to proclaim His love and grace to the world. Don’t hide behind your door. Instead, run through the open door that Jesus has given us to share the gospel of salvation.

Oh Lord, let me use the little strength I have to obey Your word and proclaim the glory of Your name. Inspire me to run through that open door You’ve set before me and take advantage of any and all opportunities to share the good news of salvation in Your name.