7 Angels with 7 plagues

Rev. 15:1

Then I saw another sign in heaven, great and amazing, seven angels with seven plagues, which are the last, for with them the wrath of God is finished.

 

What a fearful thing is the wrath of God! In this chapter John saw what looked like a sea of glass mingled with fire. Beside this sea were those who had conquered the beast [faithfully stood for Jesus], its image, and its number [666]standing with the harps of God in their hands singing the song of Moses and the Lamb [a song of redemption],

 

 "Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations. Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed."

 

After this, he saw the sanctuary of the tent of witness in heaven opened. Out of it came 7 angels with 7 plagues. The angels were clothed in pure white linen with golden sashes around their chests. One of the 4 living creatures gave these angels 7 bowls full of the wrath of God. At this moment the sanctuary was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His great power. No one could enter the sanctuary until the 7 plagues of the 7 angels was finished.

 

Not only were there 7 plagues but added to that were 7 bowls of the wrath of God. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. So many 7's...God's wrath is perfectly complete. When He is done, nothing will be left unpunished. He is faithful to His words, and His words included His wrath.

 

Father,

This chapter is short, and I see that nothing else needs to be said once Your wrath is unleashed. Thank You for saving me and sparing me from this great wrath. You are great and marvelous. Your ways are just and true. You alone are holy and worthy of all worship.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Judgment Has Come

Rev. 14:7

And he said with a loud voice,  Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come, and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.

 

John looked and saw Mt. Zion (God's holy hill), and on it stood the Lamb with 144,000 (Rev. 7:4) who had the name of the Lamb and the Father on their foreheads. Then a voice came from heaven, first sounding like the roar of many waters and loud thunder, and then like the sound of harpists playing on their harps. The 144,000, those redeemed (first fruits for God and the Lamb), undefiled (virgins), and blameless (without lies), were singing a new song (triumph through the Lamb) before the throne, a song which no one else could learn except for the 144,000. These follow the Lamb wherever He goes.

 

Next three angels come to proclaim the hour of God's judgment. The first angel proclaimed an eternal gospel to earth dwellers, every nation, tribe, language, and people. He said, Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come, and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.

 

The second angel, said, Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great, she who made all nations drink the wine of the passion of her sexual immorality. Babylon represents society's penchant for material prosperity and pleasure, seducing the unwary into adultery against the Lord.

 

 The third angel said, If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, he also will drink the wine of God's wrath, poured full strength into the cup of His anger, and he will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night, these worshipers of the beast and its image, and whoever received the mark of its name. Constant torment! Hell is not annihilation, it is an eternal state of agony. Absolutely no rest!

 

Here is the call for the endurance of the saints, who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus... Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. Blessed indeed, says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them. In contrast to hell, the faithful saints (even to death) are blessed with rest from their labors and their persecution.

 

Then a white cloud appeared, seated on the cloud was Son of Man with a golden crown on His head, and a sharp sickle in His hand. He was instructed to put in His sickle and reap, for the harvest of the earth was ripe (believers). Then another angel came out with a sharp sickle. He was told to put in his sickle and gather the grape clusters from the earth. These clusters the angel threw into the great winepress of God's wrath. The winepress was trodden (trampling  the nations who have trampled God's holy City--Is. 63:1-6) outside the city and blood flowed the winepress as high as a horse's bridle, to 1600 stadia (about 184 miles). What a picture! Jesus faithfully reaping His own, keeping them safely as compared to the grape harvest and the winepress of God's wrath trampling the unbelieving nations. Judgment will come swift and sure! The only option is to worship the Creator!

 

Father, 

Your judgment is swift and so final. Give me your grace and strength to endure, to be faithful to the end no matter what the circumstances. Give me eyes to see those who need to hear the message of the gospel so that they might be ready for the reaping.

In His name,

Amen



Two Beasts

Rev. 13:8

and all who dwell on earth will worship it, everyone whose name has not been written before the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who was slain.

 



 

John now saw a beast rising out of the sea, with 10 horns, 7 heads, 10 diadems on the horns, and blasphemous names on its head [sometimes considered to be in alliance with the antichrist, but also considered to be world powers that wage war against the Lamb]. The beast looked like a leopard with feet like a bear, and a mouth like a lion [resembles all 4 beasts that Daniel saw in his vision-Dan. 7:1-8:2]. To this beast the dragon gave his power, his throne, and great authority. One of the beast's heads had a mortal wound that was healed [imitating the Lamb] causing the entire earth to marvel at it and to follow it, saying, Who is like the beast, and who can fight against it? [parallels God's power- Ex. 15:11] Not only that, but they worshiped the dragon for giving the beast power. They had security in the beast and felt that no power could defeat it.

 

The beast was given a mouth to utter haughty and blasphemous words against God and those who dwell in heaven. Its power would last 42 months [ 2nd half of tribulation]. It waged war on the saints and conquered them. Authority was given to every tribe, people, language, and nation, all who dwell on the earth whose name was not in the Lamb's book of life to worship the beast. Here is the call for the endurance and faith of the saints. What a hard time for those who worship God!

 

Then another beast [false prophet] emerged out of the earth. It had 2 horns like a lamb but spoke like a dragon [reveals true identity-not a true lamb]. It had the authority of the first beast in its presence, and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast while performing great signs including fire coming down from heaven [Elijah and the prophets of Baal]. It was allowed to give breath to the image of the beast so it could speak and cause judgment on those who would not worship bringing about their death. It also caused all to be marked with the name of the beast or the number of the beast on the right hand or the forehead so that they could not buy or sell without the mark. The number of the beast is the number of man, 666. Whether it was the mark of God or the mark of the beast, it revealed allegiance. Truly, Satan is the great deceiver who mimics all that God does. Still he is only a mimic, yet he takes so many people down with him.

 

Father,

The time is short. As I read this, I think of so many things. How will the saints survive in such a time? I praise You that my name is written in the Lamb's book of life and that nothing can change that, not the antichrist or the false prophet.

In the name of the Lamb,

Amen

The Woman, the Child, and the Dragon

Rev. 12:10-11

And I heard a loud voice in heaven saying, Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony for they loved not their lives even unto death.

 

In this chapter there were 2 signs in heaven: the women about to give birth and the dragon waiting to destroy her offspring. The first sign portrayed a time in history, specifically Christ's incarnation. It was at that time that Christ's death and resurrection disqualified Satan as the accuser of the brothers. The victory has already been won! The woman was clothed with the sun, moon, and stars and cried out in agony in the throes of labor. There was also a great, red dragon with 7 heads, 10 horns, and 7 diadems on his head [symbolizing great power]. His tail swept down 1/3 of the stars of heaven and cast them to the earth[ evil spirits or angels in league with Satan]. The dragon stood by the woman so that he might devour her child. But as soon as she gave birth to her son, He was caught up into heaven. He will rule all nations with a rod of iron [Messiah]. She fled into the wilderness to a place prepared by God for 1260 days [ could refer to the second half of the tribulation or others think it refers to the time after Christ's ascension and when God withdraws all restraint on the dragon].

 

Now war consumed heaven. Michael and his angels fought the red dragon. Of course, the dragon and his cohorts were defeated and cast out of heaven. The dragon [ancient serpent, devil, Satan, deceiver of the whole world] with all of his followers was thrown down to earth. Then a loud voice said, Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony for they loved not their lives even unto death. Therefore, rejoice heaven and all who dwell therein! But woe to the earth and sea for the devil has come down in great wrath because he knows his time is short!

 

When the serpent [dragon] saw that he had been ousted from heaven, he pursued the woman, but she was given 2 wings of the great eagle to fly away from the dragon into the wilderness where God will provide for her 3 1/2 years [time, times, and half a time]. The serpent [dragon] poured water from his mouth to sweep her away in a flood. But the earth helped her and swallowed up the water. Then the dragon [serpent] was furious and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring [Israel during tribulation or the church down through the ages], on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus [faithful to the end].  

 

Father,

Much of this chapter I don't understand, but I do see how important it is to be faithful. Give me Your strength and grace to be faithful in all that I do, say, and feel. When I am tempted on a daily basis, or if persecution comes down, grow me into Your faithful serpent. Help me to keep all Your commandments and hold fast to the testimony of Jesus.

In His name,

Amen



 

 



The Two Witness and the 7th Trumpet

Rev. 11:15

Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.

 

In this chapter John was given a measuring rod to measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worshipped there [shows God's protection and ownership], but to leave out the outer court. Why? It will be given over to the nations who will trample the holy city[earthly Jerusalem] for 42 months [equals 1260 days, 3 1/2 years- Dan. 7:25, 12:7].

 

Into this mix will come the 2 witnesses [representing all saints] who are called the 2 olive tree [Zech. 4:11, 14] and the 2 lampstands. They will prophesy for 1260 days clothed in sackcloth [repentance]. If anyone tries to harm them fire [God's judgment] shoots from their mouths and consumes their enemies. In addition, they have certain powers: to shut the sky [no rain- Elijah]], power over waters [to turn them into blood-Ex. 7:14-25], and to strike the earth with plagues [Ex.] as often as they desire. These are not your ordinary witnesses! When their testimony is complete, the beast [from the bottomless pit] will kill them. Their bodies will lie on the street for 3 1/2 days in the great city [symbolically called Sodom and Egypt]. During this time, people will rejoice over them making merry and exchanging presents because these 2 prophets had tormented them. After 3 1/2 days the breath of God will revive them and call them home. As they go up to heaven in a cloud,  their enemies watch. What fear they will feel! But it is only to get worse,  at this moment an earthquake takes out 1/10th of the city killing 7,000 people. Those remaining will be terrified and give glory to God. This is the 2nd Woe! One Woe yet to come.

 

After this pause for judgment, the 7th angel blows his trumpet, and there are loud voices in heaven saying, The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever. The 24 elders fell on their faces and worshiped God saying, saying,

 

"We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, who is and who was, for you have taken your great power and begun to reign. The nations raged, but your wrath came, and the time for the dead to be judged, and for rewarding your servants, the prophets and saints, and those who fear your name, both small and great, and for destroying the destroyers of the earth."

Then heaven and God's temple was opened, and the ark of his covenant was visible within his temple with flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and heavy hail.

 

Father,

Judgment is nothing to take lightly. I ask that you work in the heart of our brothers. Soften their hearts and draw them to Yourself if it is Your will.

In Jesus' name,

Amen

The 7th Angel

Rev. 10:1-2

Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven, wrapped in a cloud with a rainbow over his head, and his face was like the sun, and his legs like pillars of fire. He had a little scroll open in his hand. And he set his right foot on the sea, and his left foot on the land...

 

John saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven, wrapped in a cloud with a rainbow over his head, and his face was like the sun, and his legs like pillars of fire. Similar to Jesus' return, this angel comes in a cloud with his face shining like the sun. His legs reflect the glory of God's presence in the wilderness.[pillars of fire--Ex, 13:20-21] He had a little scroll open in his hand. And he set his right foot on the sea, and his left foot on the land. The scroll is open because the Lamb has broken its seal.Why is it called little? Perhaps in comparison to the size of the angel who spanned the sea and the land. His voice was like a roaring lion [reflective of the Lion of Judah]. When the angel called out, 7 thunders sounded. John was poised to write, but a voice from heaven spoke saying, Seal up what the 7 thunders have said, and do not write it down. The angel raised his hand to heaven [uniting all 3 spheres, land, sea, and heaven] and swore by Him who lives forever and ever, the Creator of all, that there would be no delay, but in the days of the trumpet call to be sounded by the 7th angel at a later time, the mystery of God would be fulfilled, just as He announced to His servants the prophets. In this day all will be united and Christ's headship will be as visible as will the sovereign plan and purpose of God.

 

Instead of writing, John was commanded to eat the scroll [ as Ezekiel did]. He was told it would be sweet to the taste but bitter to the stomach, and it was. He had to receive God's words into his heart before he would speak them again.[Ezk. 3:1-3, 10] Why sweet and bitter? John will see people from every tribe, nation, and language receive Christ [sweet], but at the same time, he will see many reject Christ [bitter]. The angel told John, You must prophesy again about many peoples and nations and languages, and kings.

 

Father,

How wonderful to see the connection between OT prophecy, John's prophecy. and then to think it is all yet to come. What a sovereign God you are spanning time and peoples. It makes me see what I small speck I am on Your timeline. But I am so grateful that You included me in Your chosen ones.

In the name of my Savior,

Amen



Angels and Trumpets (continued)

Rev. 9:6

And in those days people will seek death and will not find it. They will long to die, but death will flee from them.

 

The First Woe:

Angel #5-When the trumpet was blown, a star fell from heaven to earth, and the angel was given the key to the bottomless pit. He opened it and smoke like the smoke of a great furnace came out of it which darkened the sun and air. From the smoke came locusts who could only harm mankind, only those without the seal of God on their foreheads. They were allowed to torment man [stinging like a scorpion] for 5 months, but not kill them.  And in those days people will seek death and will not find it. They will long to die, but death will flee from then.

 

These locusts were strange looking like horses prepared for battle with crowns of gold on their heads, faces like human faces, hair like women's hair, and teeth like lion's teeth, breastplates of iron, tails that sting like scorpions [power to hurt people in their tails], and the noise of their wings was like the noise of many chariots with horses rushing into battle. Their king was the angel of the bottomless pit, Abaddon (Heb.) or Apollyon (Gr.).

 

The Second Woe:

Angel #6-When the trumpet was blown, a voice from the 4 horns of the golden altar of God said, Release the 4 angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates. These angels were specifically prepared for this hour, day, month, and year to kill 1/3 of mankind. They had a vast army of mounted troops who wore breastplates the color of fire, sapphire, and sulfur and whose horses had heads  like lions with fire, smoke, and sulfur coming out of their mouths. By these 1/3 of mankind was killed from the fire, smoke, and sulfur. The power of the horses was in their mouths and their tails which were like serpents with heads were used to wound men. Sadly, the rest of mankind who were not killed did not repent of their idolatry, their worship of demons, their murders, sorceries, sexual immorality, or their thefts.

 

One Woe yet to come...

 

Father,

This is indeed a horrible picture. I am so thankful that I know You. I ask for the softening of the heart of my brother that he may come to know You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Angels and Trumpets

Rev. 8:1

When the Lamb opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour.

 

John saw 7 angels with 7 trumpets standing before God. They were joined by another angel who had a golden censer and incense to offer with the prayers of the saints on the golden altar before the throne. The smoke of the incense with the prayers of the saints rose before the throne. Then the angel took the censer from the altar and threw it on the earth, and out of it came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake. This would be the beginning of terrible events, the  judgment in answer to the prayers of the saints.

 

Angel #1-blew his trumpet and there followed hail, fire, mixed with blood. This was thrown on the earth, and 1/3 of the earth was burned up as well as 1/3 of the trees and grass. [Resembles the 7th plague on Egypt]

 

Angel #2- blew his trumpet and something like a great mountain, burning with fire was thrown into the sea, and 1/3 of the sea became blood, 1/3 of the creatures died, and 1/3 of the ships were destroyed. [Could this be a meteorite?] [Resembles the 1st plague on Egypt]

 

Angel #3- blew his trumpet and a great star fell from heaven, blazing like a torch. It fell on 1/3 of the rives and springs. The name of the star was Wormwood and 1/3 of the water became wormwood and many people died from the water. [Resembles the Nile becoming undrinkable]

 

Angel #4-blew his trumpet and 1/3 of the sun , 1/3 of the moon, and 1/3 of the stars was struck so that 1/3 of the light was darkened and1/3 of the day was kept from shining as well as the night. [Resembles the 9th plague on Egypt]

 

Then John saw an eagle crying with a loud voice as it flew overhead saying, Woe, woe, woe to those who dwell on earth, at the blasts of the other trumpets that the 3 angels are about to blow. It will get much worse! Three Woe's! The damage done so far has been limited to 1/3 but what is to come is much more severe.

 

What a picture of judgment! How awful it will be!

 

Father,

As I read this, I see and understand how real Your judgment is, and how much You value the prayers of the saints. Lord, I ask You to touch the heart of our brothers who are so resistant to You. If is is Your will, draw them to You so that they might be saved. 

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Lamb

Rev. 7:17

For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and He will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.

 

In Ch. 7 John saw 4 angels standing at the 4 corners of the earth holding back the wind so that no wind would blow on earth or sea. Another angel rising from the sun with the seal of God called out to the 4 angels who had been given power to harm the earth and sea telling them no to harm the earth or sea until we the servants of God have been sealed on their foreheads [144,000-12,000 from each tribe of Israel although not every tribe is listed].

 

After this John saw a great multitude [without number] from every nation, tribes, peoples, and languages standing before the throne of the Lamb clothed in white robes with palm branches in their hands crying out loudly, Salvation belongs to out God who sits on the throne and to the Lamb.  And all those in the throne room [4 living creatures, elders, and angels] fell on their faces saying, Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen!

 

Then one of the elders spoke to John telling him who these white-clothed people were and from where they came. They were the cones coming out of the Great Tribulation whose robes have been washed in the blood of the Lamb. For that reason they are before the throne serving God night and day. He will be their shelter, and they will never hunger or thirst again neither will the sun scorch them. The Lamb who is in he midst of the throne will be their shepherd to guide them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away all their tears. I can only imagine how they would feel after going through such persecution and deprivation.

 

For me, I see a great picture of God caring for and loving those who are His. Also I see the Lamb becoming the Shepherd. How wonderful! I love the worship scenes. How glorious it will be when I am there as well singing and praising God.

 

 Father,

You alone are worthy of praise. You alone are the One who loved me in a completely self-less way. You alone are my heart's desire and I want to live for You. Continue to grow me so that I might serve you and love You more.

In His name,

Amen

6 Seals

Rev. 6:1

Now I watched when the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say with a voice like thunder, Come!

 

John was invited to look at what the seals revealed with the same word, Come.

• The first seal was a white horse with a rider who had a bow and crown. He came out conquering. [political and military leaders expanding their realms]
• The second seal was a bright red horse with a rider who had a sword in his hand. This rider was permitted to take peace from the earth with people killing one another. [The bloodshed following the conquests]
• The third seal was a black horse with a rider who had a scales in his hand regulating buying and selling values. [inflated grain prices because of scarcity of crops due to the preceding war and destruction.]
• The fourth seal was a pale horse and its rider was death and Hades followed him. They were given authority over 1/4 of the earth to kill with sword, famine, pestilence and will beasts. [death by epidemic, the Great Tribulation]
• The fifth seal revealed the souls of those who had killed for the word of God and for their witness. They cried out to God to avenge their blood. They were given white robes and told to rest awhile until the number of them was complete.
• The sixth seal was a great earthquake and the sun became black, the moon like blood with the stars falling out of the sky. The sky vanished and every mountain and island was removed. All the people on the earth hid in the caves and among the rocks calling to the mountains to fall on them and hide them from the wrath of the Lamb for the great day of their judgment had come.

There is the picture! Pretty scary!

 

Father,

Give me the strength to always stand for you even if it means like the souls of those under the altar. Your grace is my strength.

In the name of the Lamb,

Amen

Worthy is the Lamb

Rev. 5:13-14

And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying, "To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!" And the four living creatures said, "Amen!" and the elders fell down and worshiped.

 

In chapter 5 John saw a scroll [God's covenant with man] sealed with 7 seals. An angel was asking who was worthy to open the scroll and break its seals? Sadly, no one was found. John began to weep until one of the elders said to him, Weep no more, behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah [Jacob's blessing on Judah transferring leadership], the Root of David, [Royal descendant and new ruler] has conquered, so that He can open the scroll and its 7 seals.

 

There in the midst of the throne room was the Lamb [Jesus] standing as though it had been slain [the one who died and rose again] with 7 horns [ great power] and 7 eyes [7 Spirits of God]. Why is the Lamb worthy? He has conquered sin, death, and hell. As the Lamb took the scroll from Him who was seated on the throne, the 24 elders fell down before the Lamb each one holding a harp, and golden bowls of incense [the prayers of the saints]. Instantly they sang a new song celebrating redemption through the death of the Lamb., saying,

 

 "Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation,
and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth."\

 

Paradoxically, the Lion dies as the Lamb redeeming all those who believe regardless of ethnicity. These saved ones will be a kingdom of priests who reign on earth. Satan's tyranny will be over, and the Lamb's righteousness will rule. Then as John looked around, the entire scene was one of praise: living creatures, elders, many angels [numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands] all singing with a loud voice,

 

 "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!"

 

 And added to all that praise, John heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying,

 

"To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!" And the four living creatures said, "Amen!" and the elders fell down and worshiped.

 

What a glorious scene! The fulfillment of Phil. 2:9-10-11,

 

Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

 

The Lamb is worthy, and it is the biggest deal ever! So much pageantry, pomp, and praise makes me wonder how much praise is in my heart for His worthiness. It should be the subject of my song and the reason I must bow before Him. He is the only One and the only Way and the only Truth!

 

Father,

Even as I read this chapter, excitement swells up in my heart. Thank You for sending the Lamb to redeem me from my sinful state. He is worthy of all praise. He should be highly exalted. Prepare me for this glorious day.

In the name of the Lamb,

Ame

The Throne Room

Rev. 4:11

Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they existed and were created.

 

John received a heavenly vision, one of great beauty and praise. He was summoned with a voice like a trumpet [Jesus Christ] to come up and see the future. In the Spirit, he witnessed praises offered in the throne room of God. There in the midst was God, indescribable by human words so John used the closest valuable objects that he could, jewels of highest quality, rainbows of jewels. Around the throne were the 24 elders seated on 24 thrones clothed in white garments with golden crowns on their heads [the united grouping of Israel and the NT church].

 

The sounds coming from the  throne are heard as flashes of lightning and peals of thunder, and before the throne were 7 torches of fire representing the 7 Spirits of God [the complete perfection of the Spirit] and then before all that was a sea of glass, like crystal. Around the throne were the 4 living creatures full of eyes in front and behind [Seeing everything and missing nothing]. The first living creature was like a lion, the second like an ox, the third with the face of a man, and the fourth like an eagle in flight. What are these? It doesn't really say but their appearance is somehow connected to their function. Each creature had 6 wings and are full of eyes around and within [this fact is repeated so it must have importance] and they never cease to praise the God, the One seated on the throne saying, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. Just a thought. Perhaps the eyes represent seeing God's presence in the past [who was], in the present [who is], and in the future [who it to come]. They are completely and constantly focused on God and on praising His name.

 

When these creatures gave glory, honor, and thanks to the One on the throne, the 24 elders fell down before Him in worship casting their crowns [submission] before Him who lives forever saying, Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power [the power of the worshiper given to God], for You created all things, and by Your will they existed and were created. Only He is worthy of praise, honor, glory, and power because He is the Creator, the originator of all.  Whatever man is, or has done, or will do is all because of God. What a vision and a foretaste of heaven! 

 

Father,

As I glimpse heaven, I praise You as well.  You are my Creator,  my Savior, my Provider, my all. Without You I would not even exist. Thank You over and over and over again.

Through Jesus,

Amen

Laodicea-the Last Letter

Rev. 3:20

Behold I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into him and eat with him, and he with me.

 

Jesus identifies Himself to the church at Laodicea as the words of the Amen [the end], the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God's creation [the beginning]. As the faithful and true witness, Jesus  exposes their true condition. In fact, there is nothing good to say about them. He knows their works that they are neither cold or hot, but lukewarm, a condition which Jesus finds heinous and spits out of His mouth. Lukewarm is the epitome of apathy! This church claims that they have need of nothing. They are rich and prosperous [fleshly condition], but it truth they are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked [spiritual condition]. Their spiritual awareness had been totally obliterated and replaced with fleshly achievements that really count for nothing. Their heart is consumed with earthly and temporal treasures and not with what is eternal. 

 

Jesus counseled them to buy from Him gold refined by fire [purity through testing], so that they would be rich [spiritually], and have white garments [washed in the blood of Jesus, the garments of the saints] so that the shame of their nakedness[spiritual condition] would not be seen. They needed salve [Holy Spirit] for their eyes so they could truly see. Jesus reminds them that those He loves, He reproves and disciplines. So listen up, be zealous to repent! Jesus loves them so much that He is standing at the door of their hearts, knocking, waiting for someone to hear His voice and open the door. If they will, He will come in and fellowship with him. What tenderness and concern!

 

Jesus gives an incentive to this church to help them choose wisely. To the one who conquers, he will sit with Jesus on His Father's throne, as Jesus conquered and sat down on the Father's throne...but we have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, Abba! Father! The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are the children of God, and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him. What is this suffering? No doubt it is the gold refined by fire that Jesus counseled them to buy... you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith--more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fired--may be found to result in praise, and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. So it is for this church. Their faith must be tested as they reject the world and all it has to offer, and as their vision departs from the temporal and embraces the eternal, and as they become zealous in repenting not apathetic in maintaining. Jesus concluded with He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. Listen up. Examine your heart. Be that gold tested by fire with a genuine faith.

 

Lesson for Me: Examine my heart. Be zealous to repent of any sin weighing me down.

 

Father,

Keep Your salve constantly on my eyes so that I may see Your way and follow in Jesus' steps. Reveal to me any desires for this world's riches and any apathy of spirit so that I may confess and repent. Make me zealous for you.

In His name,

Amen

More Letters to the Churches

Rev. 3:3

Remember then, what you received and heard. Keep it and repent. If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you.

 

Jesus identifies Himself as the one who has the 7 spirits of God [the perfect Holy Spirit] and the 7 stars [the churches true identity]. He comes to these people as the revealer of their true identity. Jesus declares that they have a reputation for life, but in truth are dead. He wants them to wake up and strengthen what is left before it dies. Sadly, at this point, their works are not complete in the sight of God. If they do not repent and keep the word that they have been taught, Jesus will come in judgment like a thief in the night, unexpected and devastating.

Yet He knows there are a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments, saints that walk with the Lord in white declaring them worthy. Why white? How worthy? Those who conquer will be clothed in white garments and their names will never be blotted out of the book of life. Jesus will confess their names before the Father and His angels. It is all because of Jesus. He clothes His saints in white. His righteousness makes us worthy. Once again, He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. 

It makes me wonder what the response of the church was. Were the only ones who truly heard and comprehended those who were already walking with the Lord? Hopefully, those who still had something to strengthen did.

 

Lesson for Me: Repent, keep the Word, be a conqueror so I am completely His for eternity and be presented to the Father and His angels.

 

 

 

Rev. 3:10

Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on earth. 

 

Jesus identifies Himself to the Philadelphian church as the holy One, the true One, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one will open. Jesus has all sovereign power to open and shut, to allow entrance and to deny entrance. As the sovereign Lord, Jesus knows the works of this church that they have little power but have kept the word and never denied His name. He will cause the enemy [those of the synagogue of Satan who claimed to be Jews but were not-liars] to bow down before the true believers and see Jesus' great love for this church, for all those who love Him.

This church has kept the word, patiently enduring. Because of this Jesus will keep them from world-wide tribulation. Whether this means Jesus will take them out of the world to heaven or leave them in the world but protect them from any harm is not clearly stated. Whatever Jesus has for His own will always include His protection and His love.

Jesus declares His soon arrival and encourages them to hold fast to what they have so that no one may take their crown, to conquer to the end. To the one who conquers, Jesus will make him a pillar in the temple of God [the Spirit is in me now making my body His temple. But this will be a totally clean and sin free temple], and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from God out of heaven, and my own new name. The conqueror will always be in the presence of God! Jerusalem will be home! God's presence will be where it should be!

 

Lesson for me: Conquer till the end. Hold fast. Listen. Repent and be ready for Jesus' arrival.

 

Father,

How hard it must be for us humans who have so many mind games. We fool even ourselves into believing lies. Open my mind, my heart, and my eyes to see what is really there. I want no surprises when Jesus comes. Father, take me down the path of a conqueror through the power at work within me, Your Holy Spirit.

In His name,

Amen

 

 

Letters to the Churches [continued]

Rev. 2:25-28

Only hold fast what you have until I come. The one who conquers and who keeps my words until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received authority from my Father. And I will give him the morning star.

 

Jesus speaks to the Church in Thyatira as the one who has eyes like a flame of fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze. Such a description is fitting for this church since Thyatira was known for their guilds dealing with metals, and at the same time, these images speak of OT visions of God's glory revealing Jesus as the searcher of minds and hearts and His feet as the crusher of His enemies.

 

Jesus knows their works, love, faith, service, and patient endurance, and that their latter works exceed the first [growth], and yet this was not enough. Sobering thought! At this point it sounds like they were on the right track. So what did Jesus have against them? They were tolerating Jezebel [a prophetess] who was seducing people into sexual immorality and eating unclean food. Jesus has given her time to repent, but she refused. What is the outcome of such seduction? She gets thrown on a sickbed and those her follow her will endure the Great Tribulation unless they repent. Jesus will strike her children dead. What is the final outcome of such judgment? All the churches will know that Jesus is the searcher of hearts and the One who gives according their works.

 

Thankfully, this does not include all members of this church. To those who do not hold this teaching and have not learned the deep things of Satan, Jesus will not lay on them any other burden. What is His instruction to them? Only hold fast what you have until I come. The one who conquers and who keeps my words until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received authority from my Father. And I will give him the morning star. Quite a change of venue! Instead of enduring the tribulation, they will be ruling in the tribulation. A pretty good reason to endure! The morning star is Christ Himself, Israel's ruler and rescuer, who was foreseen by the unwilling prophet Balaam.

 

Lesson for me: Hold fast until Christ comes for me! Conquer by keeping His words until the end. How important is His word! It must be what I cling to constantly! It must be my constant source of life, power, endurance, wisdom, grace, and all that I need to hold fast!

 

Father,

Thank You for giving us Jesus, the Logos, the living word. How powerful it is ! Give me Your grace and strength to endure to the end.

In Jesus' name,

Amen

 



Wisdom

Job. 28:20

From where does wisdom come? And where is the place of understanding?

 

Job poses a question concerning wisdom and understanding. Certainly, his plight is horrendous and he is looking for answers, but sometimes, God gives no answers. He merely asks us to trust Him even in this. But even in all Job's pain and loss, he does speak the truth when he says, God understands the way to it, and He knows its place, For He looks to the ends of the earth and see everything under the heavens. He is stating the truth about a sovereign God who not only created all life but has also ordered it according to His good will and pleasure, in order to bring Him glory.

 

When God ordered all life, He told man, Behold the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding. Reverence for such a sovereign and powerful God is the beginning of wisdom, and rejecting evil is not an option. In His presence can be no evil! Thank God for the blood of Jesus that covers me completely and gives me freedom and access to the Father, in confidence I may talk to Him and seek His help in learning how to fear Him each day.

 

This verse really makes me think of all the people who are searching for wisdom, the mountains of books that have been read and written, and the untold amounts of time spent on-line, and the lives lived in frustration when they think they have the answers, but only to find out they don't. Life is hard! The lessons there are hard! Without Jesus, I can't imagine what my thoughts would be. How frustrating it is to keep searching but never be able to find the truth. Sadly, it is clearly visible in nature and in the Word of God. Their search could be over, and their lives complete! But so many reject the simple yet life-saving message of Jesus Christ. He is the answer. He is my answer.

 

Father,

Thank You for Your Son and His shed blood. Thank You for answering so many hard questions. Teach me to trust You more and more, to rest in You completely.  Give me a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Jesus.

In His name,

Amen

 

Church Letters

Rev. 2:4

The Church at Ephesus

But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first.

 

Jesus gave this letter to the angel of the Ephesians to deliver to the church. Jesus remembers their toil and doctrinal purity. They have tested those claiming to be apostles and found them false. They are patiently enduring and bearing up for His name's sake and have not grown weary So far sounds like a great letter and church! How many churches in America could live up to this? How many Christians could have this said of them?

 

Still in spite of all this, Jesus has a negative comment for them. They have lost their first love. What does this mean? Is it their love for Jesus? Has it been reduced to duty? Could it mean their love for one another? Or even both? He urges them to repent, to remember their former life and do the works they did at the first. This is an urging with teeth! Jesus says, If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent. Ouch!

 

Then He continues with sandwich psychology. Top slice of bread is positive, middle filling is negative, and final slice is positive. He remembers they hate the works of the Nicolaitans as does He. So much right, yet still heavy judgment. He ends by saying, He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says. Listen and heed. Don't be foolish. Finally, He says to the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the Paradise of God. Eternal life is the reward! Be a conqueror.

 

Lesson for me: Am I doing what is right without my heart engaged? Am I loving Jesus and His body as I should?

 

Rev. 2:10

The Church at Smyrna

Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.

 

Jesus identifies Himself as the first, the last, and the one who died and came to life. Could it be because of what they will have to endure? Perhaps reminding them of His life and that they must follow in His footsteps. He tells them that He knows their tribulation and poverty and the slander they have endured. Hard times! Yet, He tells them to endure to the end [when I am sure they wanted to hear they would be delivered]. Being delivered is not always the plan of God! They are instructed to be faithful unto death! Martyrdom after 10 days of intense persecution! How hard! God's grace in that moment would be theirs, that is if they endure. If they endure, the crown of life is theirs. Again He says listen and heed because the one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.

 

Lesson for me: Am I ready for persecution? Could I stand until the end? Am I even now taking in the word to fortify my spirit and to be rooted and grounded in love?



 

The Church at Pergamum

Rev. 2:16

Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you and war against them with the sword of my mouth.

 

Jesus identifies Himself as the one who has the sharp two-edged sword, the Logos, the word of God that is living and active...piercing to the division of soul and of Spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from His sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Sadly, this church dwells where Satan's throne is, where much evil and false teaching is. Yet they still claim the name of Jesus and Antipas, a faithful witness, was martyred for his faith. But is this enough? To claim the name without the life is not paradoxical but wrong!

 

Jesus has two things against this church. One, some are holding the teachings of Baalam, a prophet who wanted gain [$] even at the cost of disobedience. The end result for Israel was eating unclean food and sexual immorality. If they were allowing these teachings, certainly these people were practicing these deeds. Second, some are following the teachings of the Nicolaitans. Essentially, they are following false teachers that are destroying their lives. So why does He come with the Sword? Because the Word of God can expose all this and bring sure and swift judgment. I also notice that it is not all of the church, but some within the church. This church is struggling with unity. Again Jesus says, listen or He will come soon and judge with the Sword of His mouth. The reward for this church is hidden manna [in place of food sacrificed to idols] and a white stone with their name one it that no one knows except the one who received it. [ the stone given to the victors at the games]

 

Lesson: Search all doctrine and teaching in the Word. Make sure it follows the Word. Am I allowing any impurity in my life? Repent don't let it ride!

 

Father,

These letters are hard revealing sins that are in most people. Have Your Spirit reveal to me the sin that is in my life so that I might repent. Grant me this repentance and change my heart.

In the name of the two-edged Sword,

Amen

 





Resplendent and Powerful

Rev. 1:17

When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But He laid His right hand on me saying, Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one, I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.

 

John was exiled to the island of Patmos, but while there He saw and recorded many fantastic things. As he was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, a loud voice told him to record what he saw and send it to the 7 churches. As he turned, he couldn't believe what he saw. 

 

There was Jesus, the Son of man standing in the midst of 7 golden lampstands, clothed with a long robe and a golden sash around his chest [divine glory]. His hair was white [divine wisdom], like white wool or snow, His eyes  like a flame of fire[ revealing the truth] and feet like burnished bronze [crushing strength], refined in a furnace. His voice was like the roar of many waters [the power of nature], and in His right hand He held 7 stars, from His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword [Logos, the living word that searches and judges], while His face shone like the sun in full strength [life-giving but also life-destroying]. What an image! No wonder John fell at his feet as one who is dead! When I read these words, they bring to mind unlimited power, complete purity, final judgment, the ability to leave anyone helpless and exposed in His presence, even John.

 

But Jesus' touch lifted him, and he said,  Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one, I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, I have the keys of Death and Hades. So much is said in so few words! His origins, His resurrection and death, His eternal being,  His peace, as well as His future judgment. When he rose from the dead, He conquered sin and death giving Him the keys and the final word! Not only that, but to His own, He gave peace.

 

Even though in exile, John's ministry would continue. [similar to Paul in his imprisonment.] Jesus explained that the 7 stars were the angels [personifications of the character of each church] of the 7 churches, and the 7 lampstands were the 7 churches. Are these 7 churches representative of all churches or were they specific?

 

Father,

I see that Jesus is so overwhelmingly righteous and powerful, and yet at the same time reached down and saved me. What a glorious God You are! As I go through this book, Spirit teach me to understand and apply.

In His name,

Amen



The One who is, and was, and is to come!

Rev. 1:1

The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw.

 

The book of Revelation is the end of the story told by John who was visited by an angel sent by God. Whose story? It is the story of the word of God [Logos, Jesus the living word] and the testimony of Jesus Christ. He is the revelation and the revealer! He is all in all!

 

Verse 2 declares that there is a blessing [the first of 7 yet to follow] for the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, listens to it, and heeds it applying the message. Why? For the time is near! No doubt throughout all the ages since Christ believers have felt that the time was near. Just as I do now. In God's timing, the time is very near! John is writing to the 7 churches in Asia. Were there only seven? Not really. Certainly there could have been, but more likely it stands as the completed, perfect number of churches.  

 

John greets the churches with grace and peace from Him, who is and was and is to come, [Jesus Christ, the Savior and source of grace and peace], from the 7 Spirits who are before the throne, [Revelation presents the Spirit as one and as 7, the completed perfection of the Spirit], and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead [resurrected], and the ruler of kings on earth, this kingship is yet to come. 

 

To Him, Jesus Christ, who loved us, freed us from sin by His blood, and made us a kingdom of priests to God the Father, to Him, Jesus Christ,  be glory and dominion forever! This is the only way it can be in the life of everyone who loves Jesus. Then the clouds open, and He descends with every eye upon Him, even those who have pierced him, including all tribes of the earth. What will be their response? Wailing! They will see the One they have rejected. They will see with clarity who they denied. They will know they have blown it and only judgment awaits! Jesus declares Himself as the Alpha and the Omega, the One who is, who was, and who is to come, The Almighty![ the God Man] Here is His story from beginning to end. He will now claim all that is rightfully His.

 

Father,

How glorious is Your Son! The message is clear: read, listen, and apply. Send Your Spirit to teach me so that I might bring glory to You and to Your Son.

In His name,

Amen

End Times

Jude 20

But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.

 

 

Believers have been warned that the end times will be full to the brim with scoffers who follow their own ungodly passions. Their aim and purpose is to cause dissension because they are of this world and are devoid of the Spirit of God. Sadly, this world is all they have, and their spiritual eyes are so dim they think they love it. They have bought the lie in all its forms. Can they even do damage to the church? Most assuredly! Jude warns believers, the beloved, to build themselves up in the faith, to pray in the Holy Spirit, to keep themselves in the love of God, and to wait for the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ when He calls His own home.  Pretty specific instructions that must be followed and obeyed to be protected, but how do we reach others with the gospel of grace?

 

Jude says to have mercy on doubters [but at the same time, be on guard], save them by snatching them out of the fire [Satan's control over their life will lead to eternal fire and torment.], to others show mercy with fear [fear for the pollution that a believer will be around], hating even the stained fleshly garments that they wear [be merciful but never forget the power of the flesh. Expose sin for what it is. Say exactly what God says about their sin. Use His Words to fight the battle. To do this I must know His words. They must be part of my being.]. 

 

Always remember to be surrounded and covered in prayer. A battle with Satanic forces is no picnic; and sadly, some have lost their way in this polluted battle ground. Jude concludes with a glorious benediction, Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling [falling into the same sinkhole that the ungodly are in.] and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy [Holiness and blamelessness come only from the righteousness of Christ. I must be in Him to be presented in this way. He alone can do it by His shed blood and resurrection.], to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen How glorious is that! God through Jesus deserves all praise, glory, dominion and authority. He is the Sovereign God whose purposes and will have ordered all time from the foundation of the world. He is the Sovereign God who created all there is and set it in working order. He is the Sovereign God who in love bridged the gulf of separation and hostility by sending His one and only Son to die, pay the debt of sin, and rise again in resurrection power. He is the Sovereign God who will balance the scales of justice one day until Jesus is exalted above all and His name becomes the name above all names so at His name every knee will bow and every tongue will confess Jesus Christ is the Lord to the glory of the Father. Wow! Wow! Wow! And I am an adopted child of God, an heir, and a joint heir with Jesus, a citizen of the kingdom, and a worshipper at the feet of the Lamb and the Father for eternity. What a glorious future and hope! Certainly, the blessed hope!

 

Father,

My heart is full of praise and thanks this morning. How glorious You are! How glorious is Your Son! How glorious is Your Spirit. Open my eyes to see those you would have me share the gospel with. Protect my soul while I do share. Keep my eyes ever focused on You and Your grace. Open the ears of my heart so that I might hear clearly every word that the Spirit speaks.

In the Name above all names,

Amen

The Ungodly and Their Ungodly Deeds

Jude 14

It was also about these that Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied, saying, Behold the Lord comes with ten thousands of His holy ones, to execute judgment on all and to convict all the ungodly of all their deed of ungodliness that they had committed in such an ungodly way, and  of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.

 

Jude has previously warned these believers to contend for the faith, to be vigilant and prepared for a spiritual battle. In vs. 8-18 Jude gives a description of these ungodly people who seek to undermine believers and speak horrible things against Jesus Christ. Knowing the enemy is key to fighting the enemy.

 

They are people who rely on dreams, defile the flesh, reject authority, and blaspheme the glorious ones. For example, Michael, the archangel, when he had to contend with the devil over the body of Moses, only said May the Lord rebuke you. It was not up to Michael. It is up to Jesus! They also blaspheme what they don't understand and are destroyed by what they do understand! How ironic! God says, Woe! These people have walked in the way of Cain [murderers]. have abandoned themselves for gain [like Balaam], perished in the rebellion [Korah]. Surely such people as these would not be found in the church. Wouldn't they stick our and be easy to spot? No!

 

In the church, they are hidden reefs at love feasts [reefs meant for the destruction of the ship when least expected]as the feast with you without fear [they blend in participating in what believers do], shepherds feeding themselves [without caring for others like a shepherd should], waterless clouds [making promises that never come true], swept along by winds [not steady or true in their course], fruitless trees in late autumn [By their fruit they should be known--no fruit is a significant identifier], twice dead, uprooted, wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame [undisciplined, dead in sin, and their own shame becomes their fruit], wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever. Their future is hopeless. What they have now is as good as it will be for these directionless, wandering people who seek to take others on this hopeless journey with them.

 

Enoch prophesied about these people as well, Behold the Lord comes with ten thousands of His holy ones, to execute judgment on all and to convict all the ungodly of all their deeds of ungodliness that they have committed in such an ungodly way, and all of the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against Him. Every word and deed will be accounted for! All ungodliness will be punished. These are the grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires. They are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage. How like the corporate world! What an admonition to me. Do I have any of these traits? Do I choose to follow my own sinful desires, or am I taking captive every thought and action for Christ?

 

Rom. 7 reveals Paul struggle with his sin nature. This is where he does what he doesn't want to and doesn't do what he wants to do because of the sin still resident within his body. But it is crucial that his desire was to do good, to be holy, to honor Jesus Christ. That is the key difference in the believer and these horrible unbelievers who are set out to destroy believers. Where is my heart? Where is my focus? Am I letting the world and its allurements weaken my desire for holiness? Has it fooled me into thinking that what I value and do in this world are not that important? Has it jaded my perceptions so that I believe I am good spiritually while I am enjoying the world?

 

Father,

Keep my eyes open for these hidden reefs who are within the church. Give me your grace to be strong. Spirit, open my eyes to my true self so that I might grow into the fullness of the stature of Jesus Christ.

In His name,

Amen

Called, Beloved, and Kept

Jude 1:2

To those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ:

 

What a greeting! So much doctrine and blessing in this short verse. Called, Beloved, and Kept! Jesus Christ reconciled me to the Father in such a glorious way! My salvation and call came only at the drawing of the Father. Once called and saved, I became part of the Beloved, the collective body of Christ who will live for eternity praising God. In this life, I am kept, sealed, by the Holy Spirit for the day of Christ's return when He takes His bride, the church, home for the wedding feast of the Lamb.

 

Even though Jude was eager to write about their common salvation, there were larger issues on his mind. He strongly appealed to them to contend for their common faith, the faith that was expressed in the greeting. Why? Creepers have entered the church! Such people creep in unnoticed to do harm to the body. Even though these people are designated for condemnation, they are undeterred from their task of enticing others to their same state, a state where grace has become sensuality and perversion, a state where they have denied Jesus.

 

His warning included several examples of people who received condemnation because of such perversion. When Israel was led out of Egypt, God destroyed the unbelievers as they walked in the wilderness. Also there were the fallen angels who were puffed up with pride thinking they could climb to a higher position. Where are they? Waiting in gloomy darkness until the judgment day! Finally, Sodom and Gomorrah were cities that indulged in sexual immorality and unnatural desires and were immediately destroyed by fire. All of these serve as examples to those who pervert the grace of God and choose a path of sensuality and perversion. Obviously, following these people would mean a complete denial of Jesus and His grace. Do not be fooled! God is not mocked! Whatever is sown will be harvested! In this case, the harvesting will be eternal fire and torment. Could this happen to the church in my day? Of course, in many places it already has! So in conclusion, I must count my status [called, Beloved, and kept] as something precious, that I need to guard. I must ask the Spirit to open the eyes of my heart so I can see clearly the spiritual battles in my life. As Mt. said, Watch and pray so that you do not fall into temptation.

 

Father,

Open my eyes to see  temptation so that in your grace and strength I can contend for my faith. Strengthen me. Thank You for calling me into the Beloved and keeping me until the day that Jesus comes to take me home.

In His name,

Amen

 



Abide in Me

Jn. 15:5

I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

 

Jesus is the vine, and the Father is the vinedresser. If I am a branch not attached to the vine [Jesus], I am taken away [burned]. But if I am in the vine [which I am], then I can expect pruning so that I will bear more fruit. Does pruning hurt? Of course it does. But He doesn't send trials and adversity to hurt me. His motive is to grow me so that I might be even more fruitful. Strangely, I often think of the short term [the pain] whereas God thinks of the long term [the fruit of holiness]. To calm my heart and mind, I must put my trust in my sovereign God, letting Him have His way regardless of the pain and my foolish questioning. Instead of wondering why, I need to focus on abiding.

 

At salvation, I was made spiritually clean [sins washed away] by the permanent stain remover, the blood of Jesus. So what is my next step? I must abide in Him and He in me. Without this abiding, I will surely fail and fall repeatedly. I would be just  like a fruitless branch that is disconnected from the vine. Unless I abide in Him, I can do nothing. NOTHING! Nothing that is spiritually true or spiritually lasting. Works done in my flesh [no matter how easy they seem at the time] count for nothing!! What a lesson! It makes me pause and wonder how many works have I done while abiding in Him? Sad, so very sad!

 

If I abide in Him and His words abide [logos- Jesus is the living word] in me, I can ask whatever and it will be done. There is the truth of it! His word must abide in me! Of course, my prayers will be answered because I will be praying in sync with His word. His word will become my word. His word will be my very life-line for all that I do and think.

 

By bearing much fruit [abiding in Jesus and His words in me] the Father is glorified. Not only that but I will prove my authenticity as a child of God and a follower of Jesus. Just like the Father loved Jesus, so Jesus loves me. Abiding in Him means I am abiding in His love! Keeping His commandments is the way to abide in His love [as Jesus did with His Father]. Seems somewhat circular. Abiding--Jesus--Fruit--abiding--word--Answered prayer--abiding--love--obedience--abiding.. And round and round I should go! But the result of all this is joy, His joy in me and my joy will be full! His joy will be my joy!! What else could it be if I abide in Jesus and He abides in me!

 

Father,

What a glorious passage! Thank You for all these blessings. Spirit, teach me how to abide more and more each day. Draw me into the place of blessing, fruit, love, and obedience. Open my eyes to functioning without abiding in You and Your word.

In His name,

Amen

 



The Holy Spirit

Jn. 14:26

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.

 

Jesus was preparing his disciples for his return trip to heaven. He assured them that he would not leave them orphans to fend for themselves and be eaten up by the wolves of false doctrine and false teachers. One disciple wanted to know how Jesus could manifest Himself to them but not to the world. Jesus answered. If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come and make our home with him. Not only that, but Jesus was sending the Helper, the Holy Spirit to be with them, indwelling them, and teaching them all things. In essence he was saying, I am leaving you protected and safe so don't worry. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts by troubled, neither let them be afraid. This peace would last their entire lives. It was not dependent upon circumstances, but on the completed act of Christ's sacrifice. Once for all, He took the punishment for sin leaving all of us who believer reconciled to the Father.

 

Why did he tell them all this? So that when it took place, they would know and recognize it. So they would know there would be no surprises. Imagine how they felt! They had been with Jesus non-stop and now He was going away. I am sure they cried out NO in their hearts. What could be better than one-on-one with Jesus? So when they would see the horrible torturous death of Jesus, they would know it had no part with the ruler of this world. Jesus died because He obeyed the Father and did what the Father had commanded Him to do. Just as they would have to do now. It is easy for me to write this because I see it as a finished work, but they did not! They were living in the moment with raw emotions and massive insecurities. But the Helper would be there to radically change their lives and give them a mission that would rock the world.

 

Father,

Thank You for this peace and for the Helper. Sharpen the ears of my heart to hear the teaching voice of the Spirit in me. Take away my penchant for busyness and let me be still before You.

In His name,

Amen