A little boy walked to his friend’s house to play. His dad instructed him to call home when he arrived, but the boy got distracted and forgot to call. The father knew punishment might be necessary to teach his son a lesson, but first he decided to call the friend’s home, let the phone ring once, and then hang up. Moments later, his son called. “What took so long?” the father asked. “I started playing and forgot to call,” replied the boy. “But when I heard the ring, I remembered.”

Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.

Revelation 3:19

How often does God, not wanting to punish His children, send reminder calls? In today’s verse, John was “calling” the church at Laodicea, warning discipline would come if they didn’t change their behavior and repent. Jesus, in His love for them, wasn’t willing to overlook their sin. He would chastise so they’d see their mistakes and correct ungodly behavior.

Are you listening for reminders from God – warnings you may need to correct some behaviors? Know it’s because of His great love for you that the Lord disciplines you. Pray today, too, for God to send reminders to America’s leaders to see their errors, repent and become zealous for God.

Recommended Reading: Hebrews 12:4-11