April 11: PROMISES FOR NOW AND LATER (part 2)

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.” Revelation 2:17

All of the churches are invited to truly hear these words of Jesus to Pergamos. The situation of the Christians there is a vivid illustration that it is perfectly possible to follow Christ in terrible circumstances. Our Savior encourages each of us to continually develop our listening skills through reading and truly hearing His word daily.

Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, Moses did not give you the bread from heaven, but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” John 6:32-33

The precious gift of hidden manna is accompanied by a white stone. Think of the contrast with what the compromisers purchase when they go along with man’s requirement to break the law of God: a Roman certificate on paper for so-called “protection” for one year. The faithful followers of Jesus know that He purchased them with His own blood. This white stone represents a permanent, personal “certificate” of the Judge’s pardon for the victorious overcomer.

As for the new name that will be inscribed upon it, Jesus knows each of His faithful ones so intimately that this affectionate new name will signify an aspect of character that resulted from enduring, endearing faithfulness in spite of the hardships of having lived in Satan’s dark domain. There are examples of individual and corporate name changes in Scripture that signify changes in the direction of people’s lives.*

For Zion’s sake I will not hold My peace, And for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, Until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, And her salvation as a lamp that burns. The Gentiles shall see your righteousness, And all kings your glory. You shall be called by a new name. You shall also be a crown of glory In the hand of the LORD, And a royal diadem In the hand of your God. You shall no longer be termed Forsaken, Nor shall your land any more be termed Desolate. But you shall be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for the LORD delights in you, And your land shall be married. Isaiah 62:1-4

*Genesis 17:5,15-16; 32:27-28; Isaiah 65:15; Acts 11:26; Revelation 14:1