Reading: Revelation 2:18-23

Devotional: Today we reflect on Jesus' penetrating gaze, described as "eyes like blazing fire." This imagery reminds us that God sees beyond our outward actions into the depths of our hearts. In a world where we often focus on appearances, Christ's piercing vision cuts through pretense and facade.

Consider areas of your life where you might be putting on a show of righteousness while harboring impure motives. Are there places where you've allowed compromise to creep in, justifying it with good deeds? Remember, Jesus commended the church in Thyatira for their love and faith, yet still called out their tolerance of sin.

Ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart today. Invite His refining fire to purify your intentions and realign your actions with God's will. True holiness isn't just about what we do, but who we are becoming in Christ.

Reading: 1 Kings 16:29-33, 1 Kings 21:25-26

Devotional: The mention of Jezebel in Revelation draws our attention back to the Old Testament queen who led Israel into idolatry. Today's readings give us context for understanding the dangerous influence of compromise in our spiritual lives.
In our modern world, we face constant pressure to blend in, to soften our convictions for the sake of acceptance or success. The Christians in Thyatira were tempted to participate in pagan practices to maintain their livelihoods. What are the "guilds" in your life that tempt you to compromise your faith?
Reflect on areas where you might be tolerating small compromises. Remember, it's often the subtle shifts that lead us furthest from God's path. Ask for the strength to stand firm, even when it costs you something. Trust that God's approval is worth more than any worldly gain.

Reading: 2 Peter 3:8-10, Romans 2:4-11

Devotional: Our passage in Revelation shows God giving time for repentance before judgment. This reflects His patient nature, always desiring that people turn back to Him. However, we also see that His patience has limits.
God's kindness is meant to lead us to repentance, not complacency. Have you mistaken God's patience in your life for His approval of sin? Or perhaps you've grown discouraged, wondering if He sees the injustices around you.
Take time today to thank God for His patience in your own life. Confess any areas where you've taken advantage of His grace. Then, pray for those who are far from God, that they would recognize His kindness and turn to Him before it's too late. Let God's patient love motivate you to share His truth with others.

Reading: Revelation 2:24-29, James 1:12

Devotional: To those who overcome, Jesus promises authority and the morning star. These rewards speak of sharing in Christ's victory and intimate relationship with Him.
Overcoming isn't about perfection, but perseverance. It's holding fast to our faith despite temptation, hardship, or the allure of easier paths. What challenges are you facing that tempt you to give up or compromise?
Meditate on the promises Jesus gives to those who endure. Imagine the joy of hearing Him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Let this future hope strengthen you for today's battles. Ask God to renew your determination to follow Him, no matter the cost.

Reading: Malachi 3:2-4, 1 Peter 1:6-7

Devotional: Our series began with the image of Jesus' eyes like blazing fire. Today, we consider how that fire not only judges but also refines us.
The trials and temptations we face aren't just tests, but opportunities for growth. Like gold in a crucible, the heat of life's challenges can purify our faith, making it more precious and resilient.

Reflect on a current difficulty you're facing. Instead of asking God to simply remove it, pray for the wisdom to see how He might be using it to refine you. What impurities might He be burning away? How might this trial be strengthening your dependence on Him?
Thank God for His refining work in your life. Ask for the grace to cooperate with His transforming fire, trusting that He is shaping you into the image of Christ.

This discussion guide is based on Pastor DJ's sermon "When the Eyes Search the Altar" from the series Altars Everywhere - Volume 2.  We encourage you to continue the discussion with few friends in your HOW Church community

Opening Prayer: Begin your small group session with a prayer, asking God for wisdom and open hearts as you discuss His Word.

Key Scripture: Revelation 2:18-29

Discussion Questions:

1. What stood out to you most from the sermon? Why?
2. The sermon mentions that "growing works will never clear you of corrupt worship." How can we ensure our service to God comes from a pure heart?
3. Discuss the concept of "misplaced love." How can good intentions sometimes lead us astray in our faith?
4. The pastor warns about the "Jezebel spirit" in the church. What are some ways we can discern and guard against deception or compromise in our spiritual lives?
5. How does the image of Jesus with "eyes like blazing fire" impact your understanding of His ability to see our true motives?
6. The sermon states, "Grace is not permission to sin, but it is a remedy for repentance." How does this perspective challenge or encourage you?
7. What does it mean to you to "hold on until the fire turns to reign"? How can we encourage each other in times of trial?

Key Takeaways:

1. Love without boundaries can lead to compromise and tolerance of sin.
2. Jesus sees beyond our outward actions to our true motives and heart.
3. God's patience is an opportunity for repentance, not permission to continue in sin.
4. Faithfulness during trials prepares us for future spiritual authority.

Practical Applications:

1. This week, examine an area of your life where you might be compromising your faith. Pray for strength to address it.
2. Practice discernment by evaluating the voices and influences in your life. Are they aligned with biblical truth?
3. Choose one way to "tighten your grip" on your faith this week (e.g., extra prayer time, fasting, Bible study).
4. Reach out to encourage a fellow believer who may be struggling to "hold on" in their faith journey.

Closing Prayer: Thank God for His patience and grace. Ask for discernment, strength to resist compromise, and the ability to see beyond surface-level spirituality in ourselves and others.