These chapters are so dramatic, filled with notable contrasts. If you do not remember Revelation 13, take a few minutes to read it. Verse 16 tells us unless we have a mark on our right hand or forehead (aka, the mark of the beast) we won’t be able to buy or sell.
Chapter 14 opens with 144,000 who have the Father’s name written on their foreheads. We are told that anyone receiving the mark will drink God’s fury, contrasting with those who die in the Lord (those who have patiently endured and remained faithful to Jesus) are blessed.
Then, John is shown the seven bowls of God’s wrath, poured out on those who have the mark and worship his image. Even through horrific and disgusting events, they refused to repent … I find this extremely significant. Why is this? Do they think life may get better? Are they bitter about past events in their lives? Are they simply idiots? Whatever the reason for hardening of their hearts, the implication for me is that God is still willing to forgive at this time if people are willing to repent (2 Peter 3:9 – God is not willing for any to perish). It seems to me there is still hope for those repenting.
It seems obvious this will be a dangerous time on the Earth. Demonic spirits will perform signs, “natural disasters, physical torment, economic destruction…” Then in ch. 17, vs. 14, we see “they will wage war against the lamb, but the Lamb will triumph…and with him will be his called, his chosen and faithful followers.” Those who are faithful to God are on the winning side! Ch 18:20 encourages us to rejoice; God’s judgement is coming to those who have been pronouncing judgement. Then, ch. 19 ends with the heavenly warrior—King of Kings and Lord of Lords—in triumph. As I read this, I could hear the strains of Handel’s Messiah!
While these chapters seem way off in the future, maybe not even my lifetime (as I think about them), Scripture tells us we don’t know the time or the hour. So once again, I am thinking—what do I do about this now, in my life today?
I think one of the biggest things for me is to guard my heart. I do not want to be fooled by a counterfeit spirit, so I have to know the True Spirit. The best way to do that is to read, read, read my Bible.
Focusing on God will provide me with strategies to remain faithful to him. He is giving me time and tools for now, and to prepare for the future. I also want to be mindful of opportunities to share the truth of God’s love with others. I am learning to pray that God prepares the way for deeper conversations and communications about Him.
