We have been watching the pattern of 7’s. We have also seen how God set limits. Complete destruction was not allowed. With this vision, however, there is no holding back. This was the complete unleashing of God’s wrath on those following evil. We even see that they cursed God for bringing these plagues upon them, rather than repent and seek salvation.
The function of these visions is not necessarily to give us an exact picture of what is going to happen in the final days. Instead, we are given a sneak peek into God’s intentions, and we can either be stubborn like those being afflicted or be true followers of Christ ready to receive the life God intends for us.
It is too easy to let the world’s temptations trick us into believing that everything is okay. The purpose of this book is to put us on alert to be careful to accept the messages of the world. Anything that is pulling us away from God and our devotion to him is suspect. Standing firm in our faith may not be as easy as we’d like either.
All good relationships take work. This includes our relationship with God. He will remain patient with us, but as we see in Revelation, that time of patience will come to an end. I don’t know about you, but I’m not a fan of wanting to disappoint God. Rather, I want to draw closer to him. We can do this by spending more time with him, reading his word, listening for his voice to guide us, and surrounding ourselves with other believers who will love and support us.
My heart breaks for people who don’t have a loving community of believers to surround themselves with. Yet, as we see time and time again portrayed in Revelation, there are many people who have not chosen to be part of God’s team. There are people who blaspheme and tear down those who believe. We are seeing that their hearts are so hardened that even plagues can’t break through.
Whether or not you have ever been persecuted or ridiculed for your faith, you have seen it happen in Scripture, on the news, and maybe even in your own community. Do you know anyone that needs encouragement to stand strong in their faith? Do you have friends that haven’t heard the message of God’s love and that he is searching for them? Pray that God will give you wisdom to reach out to them.
Another “beatitude” or blessing from Jesus comes in today’s reading in verse 15. Jesus said (it’s red letter in my Bible) “Look, I will come as unexpectedly as a thief! Blessed are all who are watching for me, who keep their clothing ready so they will not have to walk around naked and ashamed.” This is the 3rd (the first two being in chapters 1 and 14). Jesus has said the end is “near” and his followers in all ages have wondered when. There’s a bit of “tension” that exists as we wait and hope. This is a beautiful reminder from Jesus to be watching and be ready. How are you doing on the inside? Are you becoming more Christ-like in anticipation of his return?
Our scene today comes to an end with the words, “It is finished!” This announcement, coming from the throne itself, tells us that there will be no more delay. In his mercy, God has given as many chances for repentance as He possibly could. The seals were followed by trumpets; the trumpets were followed by bowls; but there will be no more judgments upon the earth after this – it is done.
How are you feeling after reading about the plagues? Are you feeling fear? Relief? Joy? Confusion? Ask God to reveal himself to you.
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive me for those times that I push forward and try to do things my way. Thank you for gently putting me back in my place. Help me to see the needs around me and act on ways of satisfying those needs. Thank you for giving me many chances to be the woman you desire me to be. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
