Day 361

By
Woe to the People of the Earth

Scripture

December 26—Revelation 7-9: Sealed Saints and Seven Trumpets

Observation

Before the seventh seal is opened, John sees a vision in which 144,000 "out of all twelve tribes of Israel" (7:4) receive an angelic seal of protection. Next, a great multitude dressed like a grand white-robed choir, who have come "out of Great Tribulation" (7:14), present themselves before the throne of God to serve him night and day. Following a dramatic pause, the horrors of the seventh and last seal are unfolded in the form of seven trumpets, each heralding the beginning of a devastating judgment. The first hour judgments affect nature; the final three fall upon mankind in such destructive force that each is called a "woe". "Woe, woe, woe to the people of the earth" (8:13).

Application

"He had it coming to him!" Has that phrase ever rolled off your lips when you saw someone receive the punishment that was due him? It's hard not to feel just a little pleased when justice is served. But is that the attitude God desires?

Look up the word "mercy." How does your definition compare with this one? "Mercy: compassion or forbearance shown to an offender."

God's wrath, as depicted in today's reading, was a merciful act designed to bring people to the point of repentance. Though he could have given them "what they deserved" (death), he instead sent plagues and pestilence to turn people's hearts to him.

Reflect for a moment on how God has shown mercy to you before you were saved . . . when you were saved . . . since you were saved. Is there someone around you who needs to hear about our merciful God?

Prayer

Dear God, we are thankful for your mercy and promise that your children will one day never be hungry again, nor thirsty and we will be fully protected. We wait watchfully for your return for us the "salt of the earth" to be with you forever according to your promise. And while we wait, we abide in you and your Word abides in us with the Holy Spirit as our helper we are able to overcome this world and live in peace and harmony. All the while garnering more souls into your kingdom by spreading the Good News of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We pray for those who do not know you come to accept your salvation for them because we know you want no one to suffer the Tribulation that's coming upon this earth if they don't accept our Lord, Jesus Christ. Thank you that our prayers can move your arm that moves the universe. We praise you in Jesus' name! Amen! 






© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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