MONDAY — Walking Among the Candlesticks

Scripture: Revelation 1:13; Revelation 2:1

Jesus is not distant from His churches. He is seen walking in the midst of the candlesticks, observing, knowing, and evaluating. These churches were real congregations with real people—and Christ was fully aware of their condition. The same Lord still walks among His churches today, and nothing escapes His notice. Revelation 2:1 — “These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars… who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks.” Christ is present with His churches and aware of their true condition. The One who saves the church also examines it. Lord, help me remember that You are present, watching, and working among Your people.

TUESDAY — A Church Busy but Cooling

Scripture: Revelation 2:2–3

Ephesus was a hardworking church. They labored, endured, and stood firm for truth. Yet outward activity does not always reflect inward devotion. A church can be faithful in service and still be drifting in love. Jesus sees beyond works to the heart behind them. Revelation 2:2 — “I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience.” Right activity does not always mean a right heart. Busyness can hide spiritual decline. Lord, search my heart and keep my service rooted in love for You.

WEDNESDAY — Thou Hast Left Thy First Love

Scripture: Revelation 2:4

Jesus did not say Ephesus stopped loving Him—He said they did not love Him as they once did. Their departure was gradual, not sudden. Over time, devotion cooled and routine replaced affection. Nothing alarms the Lord more than love for Him being crowded out by familiarity. Revelation 2:4 — “Thou hast left thy first love.” Love for Christ must be guarded or it will fade. It is possible to serve Christ without savoring Christ. Lord, restore in me a fresh and fervent love for You.

THURSDAY — Remember, Repent, Return

Scripture: Revelation 2:5

Jesus did not abandon Ephesus—He instructed them. He told them to remember where they once stood, repent of what had changed, and return to their first works. Spiritual recovery always begins with honest remembrance and humble repentance. Revelation 2:5 — “Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent.” Restoration begins where repentance is sincere. God can renew what we are willing to repent of. Lord, help me remember, repent, and return to wholehearted devotion.

FRIDAY — Faithful in a Hostile World

Scripture: Revelation 2:9

Smyrna was a suffering church living in a hostile environment. They were poor in this world’s goods but rich in God’s sight. Jesus reminded them that persecution does not signal His absence—often it confirms faithfulness. Heaven’s evaluation differs greatly from earth’s. Revelation 2:9 — “I know thy tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich).” Earthly loss does not equal spiritual failure. God measures riches differently than the world does. Lord, help me trust Your evaluation rather than the world’s.