The Book of Revelation begins with John praying in the Spirit. What does this mean? Well, it is actually pretty simple. Praying in the Spirit is simply praying to God without audible words. Praying silently in your heart. Our spirit (lower case "s") communicates with the Holy Spirit (upper case "S") as we pray to God and listen to Him.

As we continue our journey through the seven letters in Revelation we want to practice this spiritual discipline as a church family. Below you will find five short devotions that will include Bible readings and a few thought starters. These devotions are not meant to stand alone. Our hope is you will use these to focus your attention on God, talking with Him and listening to Him throughout the day. Start your day with these readings and spend the rest of the day being intentional to pray in the Spirit about these topics.

We challenge you to share what God is revealing to you with someone in our church family. Let's encourage each other as we follow God together!

Revelation 2:12-17

“Write this letter to the angel of the church in Pergamum. This is the message from the one with the sharp two-edged sword:

13  “I know that you live in the city where Satan has his throne, yet you have remained loyal to me. You refused to deny me even when Antipas, my faithful witness, was martyred among you there in Satan’s city.

14  “But I have a few complaints against you. You tolerate some among you whose teaching is like that of Balaam, who showed Balak how to trip up the people of Israel. He taught them to sin by eating food offered to idols and by committing sexual sin.15In a similar way, you have some Nicolaitans among you who follow the same teaching.  16Repent of your sin, or I will come to you suddenly and fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

17  “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. To everyone who is victorious I will give some of the manna that has been hidden away in heaven. And I will give to each one a white stone, and on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it.

The Power of God's Word 

Reading: Hebrews 4:12-13 

Devotional: God's word is a "sharp two-edged sword.” Today's reading reminds us of its ability to discern our thoughts and intentions. When you open God’s word what are your expectations? Do you expect God to speak into your innermost thoughts and intentions? Are you looking to be affirmed? Do you hope to be comforted? How do you respond to God’s correction? Consider areas in your life where you need God's word to penetrate more deeply. Pray for openness to let His truth transform you, even when it's uncomfortable. Today, commit to approaching scripture not just for information, but for transformation.

Faithful Witness in a Hostile World 

Reading: Revelation 2:12-13 

Devotional: The church in Pergamum remained faithful despite living "where Satan has his throne." Like Antipas, we're called to be faithful witnesses in a world that often opposes God's values. Consider the challenges you face in living out your faith. Where do you feel pressure to compromise? How can you stand firm like Antipas? Remember, Jesus sees and honors our faithfulness, even when it's costly. Pray for courage to be a light in dark places, and for wisdom to navigate difficult situations without compromising your faith.

The Danger of Spiritual Compromise 

Reading: Numbers 25:1-3; Revelation 2:14-15 

Devotional: The story of Balaam and the warning to Pergamum highlight the reality there are only two kingdoms in the this world. God’s kingdom and Satan’s kingdom. Satan often seeks to establish his kingdom in subtle ways that are not easily recognized. Since Genesis 3 he has been working to tempt us into serving ourselves, or to put it another way, establishing our own kingdoms. Are there areas in your life where you might be rebelling against God and doing things your own way. Are you getting credit or is God getting credit? Are there "little compromises" you've been making? Ask God to reveal your innermost thoughts and intentions. Ask God to give you the strength to address them. Remember, spiritual integrity is built or eroded one decision at a time. Commit to pursuing holiness in both big and small areas of your life.

Moving Beyond Apathy to Active Love 

Reading: Revelation 2:14; Matthew 5:9; James 2:14-17 

Devotional: Tolerance is built on a foundation of apathy. These verses challenge us to move beyond apathy into active engagement in God's kingdom. As "peacemakers," we're called not to avoid conflict, but to pursue God's peace through loving action. Reflect on areas in your life or community where you've been passive when action is required. How can you take a step towards being a peacemaker today? Remember, true love often requires stepping out into uncomfortable situations and trusting Jesus to do what only He can do. Pray for God's love to fill you and overflow to others in tangible ways. Consider one specific action you can take this week to be a peacemaker. Remember, step out in obedience and expect God to do something amazing!

The Path to Victory is Repentance and Forgiveness

Reading: Revelation 2:16-17 

Devotional: Jesus' call to repentance is an invitation into grace and restoration. It's not about shame, but about returning to the path of life. Is there an area in your life where you need to repent? Remember, repentance involves both turning away from sin and turning toward God. Meditate on the promise of the "hidden manna" and the "white stone." These symbolize God's provision and personal affirmation for those who overcome. What might your "new name" represent in terms of your identity in Christ? Thank God for His patience and the opportunity for a fresh start.