You have persevered and have patience . . . . Nevertheless I have this against you. — Revelation 2:3-4

 Many people think of God as a strict disciplinarian who only offers threats and cautions. The picture painted in today's Scripture reading, however, is quite different. According to Revelation 2:4, the Ephesian church had drifted away from its original love and needed to rediscover the cozy glow it previously had in order to survive (v. 5). While sternly urging the Ephesians to turn from their sins, Jesus nevertheless acknowledged everything that was well in the church (vv. 2, 3, 6). 

This is how God inspires us. He validates our allegiance to Christ and serves as a reminder of our potential. But He also highlights our shortcomings. We should be grateful that God praises and corrects us at the same time.

Our encouragement comes from God's praise, and our hope comes from God's correction.

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