Revelation 3:14–16 (NKJV)
14 “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things say the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.”
The church of Laodicea was set in a city of prosperity. Laodicea was very wealthy. But the church, The Church was apathetic. The church was wealthy, but the people were empty. Maybe they professed Christ as their savior but lived their lives for the world, or for their own purpose.
Better than we know ourselves, God knows us individually and collectively. God knows the heart and soul of each person who professes Him as Savior. God knows the church. God knows why we do what we do. He knows our desires, wants, and wishes. He knows why we do what we do. Can you imagine standing before God and seeing in Him what he sees in you.
Does God look at the outward work or the heart? God looks at the heart of each individual. 1 Samuel 16:7 “But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” Physical appearance, education, mental acuity are not what impresses God. God looks at the heart.
I prayed for God to open a door. If the door was not opened, I would not continue to go through it. My heart was revealed by how I wanted to continue down the path I set even though God clearly revealed his desire.
It is easy to tell others what they should do but not follow the path of God yourself.
Proverbs 3:5–6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.”