I am in the midst of a seven-part series on purpose in the book of Revelation. Jesus made a promise to each one of the seven churches in Revelation but only if they were victorious and overcame certain obstacles. You can read about the first three promises here before we move on to the fourth this week. I have to admit that this one is the toughest to see, so don't be too hard on me as you read.
RULE OVER THE NATIONS
Revelation 2:26-28 states:
To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations—that one ‘will rule them with an iron scepter and will dash them to pieces like pottery’—just as I have received authority from my Father. I will also give that one the morning star. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
Now the reference to iron scepter and pottery is a quote from Psalm 2, which talks about the Lord ruling in heaven while the kings of the earth try to throw off and avoid the Lord's reign. Since Psalm 2 is a reference to "now" and not the hereafter, I am assuming that the context of this passage from Revelation is also "now." Therefore there is some measure of authority that the Lord gives now to those who have overcome. Still with me?
Now let's look at one more verse in Proverbs 22:29: "Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank." The Lord will promote anyone who is skilled in his or her purpose work to the highest level their skill and and gifting can handle. They will in some sense have authority over the nations because they will be serving before and with kings, whether kings of education, industry, governments or entertainment. What's more, the overcomers will have the morning star on their side, which is a reference to the Lord Himself as you can see in Revelation 22:16.
This was certainly the experience of Joseph, David, Daniel and Paul in their purpose work. It can be your experience too, if you are willing to pay the price.
SKILL
God does not promote potential; He promotes those who have developed their potential. That potential not only includes skill but also character. Are you willing to pay the price? In my new book to be out this coming July, I list many people whom I call purpose heroes, those who became leaders because they were men and women of purpose, skill, character and integrity. They ruled and still rule nations because they made an impact, men and women like George Washington Carver, Florence Nightengale, William Wilberforce, A. B. Simpson and Harriet Tubman.
I don't know about you, but I want to be on that list someday. I want to be the best writer, speaker, or coach possible. I want to overcome the obstacles in myself and around me to serve before kings, to enjoy a measure of authority in my sphere and to have the morning star shining in my life in the dark times. Will you join me? Will you not just talk about greatness but devote your life to obtaining it as God helps you?
The world is waiting for more sons and daughters of the King to rise up and rule now. Your purpose opens the door for you to do so. I hope and pray you will be up to the task and that God will grant you favor as you seek to fulfill your purpose and extend His kingdom into the affairs of men. Thanks and have a great week!
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KENYA: I wrote a post about faith and the money for Kenya that you may want to read here. After you read it, you can give online through my website or by sending a check made out to PurposeQuest to PO Box 8882, Pittsburgh, PA 15221-0882. Thank you for standing with me in this time of great opportunity.
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