Read: Revelation 2:1-11
To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God. (v. 7)
“Where are the ‘Overcomers?’ ” I once heard a pastor’s wife lament, referencing the King James translation of this passage (vv. 7, 11). She was frustrated because the people around her all seemed to be defeated by sin and discouragement. This is a far cry from the victory that Jesus calls us to—the victory he secured through his death and resurrection. We are called to be conquerors (or overcomers)—even “more than conquerors through him who loved us” (Rom. 8:37). What wonderful things are promised to those who conquer!
The letters to the churches in Revelation addressed each of the churches individually; every congregation had separate issues and challenges to face. The church in Ephesus was commended for their stand against heresy, and for their perseverance in good works. But they had lost the love they had first had for Jesus, and they needed to repent and return to him. The church in Smyrna was encouraged to remain faithful to Christ even in the midst of persecution. Those who remained faithful would receive “the crown of life” (Rev. 2:10)—just as we read in the book of James yesterday. Most of all, those who conquer are given wonderful promises: they shall eat of the tree of life (v. 7), and they shall not be hurt by the second death (v. 11).
There are many such promises in these chapters. God’s people will persevere, they will conquer, and they will someday rule with Christ. God is faithful to his word.
As you pray, meditate on these precious promises of God.
Laura N. Sweet is a wife, mother, grandmother, and former Christian school teacher from Midland, Michigan. She writes devotional material for both adults and children, and her work has appeared in more than a dozen publications.
