Title
Our Island of Patmos
Scripture
I, John, both your brother and companion in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the island that is called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.
(Revelation 1:9)
Devotional
The Church of Jesus Christ is to be made up of those believers who consider themselves the family of God. That kindred spirit is to be strengthened through tribulation established by our Kingdom relationship and united in perseverance. Sadly, when tribulation comes we more than often flee. We habitually rebel against God’s delegated authority and are as enduring as summer snow. We have become too caught-up and comfortable with ourselves and have forgotten our first love: “The Word of God and . . . the testimony of Jesus Christ.” This is to be our common bond. If we are to suffer, let it be because of the gospel of Christ, not our religion. If we are to be governed, let it be by the ways of the Lord, not our own. And if we are to have patience, may it be “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord,”(1) not in the work of the world.
(1) 1 Corinthians 15:58