Revelation 14

“Then I saw another angel flying in mid-Heaven, having the eternal Gospel to announce to the inhabitants of the Earth – to every nation, tribe, language, and people. He spoke with a loud voice: “Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come. Worship the Maker of Heaven and Earth, the sea, and springs of water.”  Revelation 14:6-7 (HCSB)

In this chapter, God is shown working behind the scenes of history, preparing rewards for His people and punishments for those who disobey Him.  Believers are warned against falling away and encouraged to remain faithful.

It is not easy to suffer, all the while blessing God. The whole scenario of “God-willed” suffering is askew with much of what the modern Church has adopted as doctrine. But it is important to remember that the suffering of believers is Scriptural and thus good. We suffer for several reasons. God teaches us the depth of our faith when situations He ordains demand that we either trust Him or seize control. God rebukes the Enemy when we faithfully endure trials, such as is the case with Job. Our shared suffering with non-believers is a beautiful opportunity to witness the objects of our faith: peace, joy, and a right standing with God.

Until now (in the book of Revelation), what has seemed like God’s judgment, compared to our present-day life existences, has actually been intended to provoke people to repentance. Consider these verses in light of the angel’s testimony in today’s passage:

“Even now – this is the Lord’s declaration – turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Tear your hearts, not just your clothes, and return to the Lord your God. For He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, rich in faithful love, and He relents from sending disaster. Who knows? He may turn and relent and leave a blessing behind Him so that you can offer grain and new wine to the Lord your God.”  Joel 2:12-14 (HCSB)

“The Lord does not delay His promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief; on that day the Heavens will pass away with a loud noise, the elements will burn and be dissolved, and the Earth and the works on it will be disclosed.”  2 Peter 3:9-10 (HCSB)

Before the bowl judgments, even at this late hour of this World’s season, there is a final plea for salvation addressed to anyone who would accept the message of the Gospel.

Have you come to the point in your spiritual life where you know for certain that you have eternal life? The Lord has delayed His return so that as many as possible might believe. But there is coming a time when that invitation will be withdrawn, and it will be as if a thief had stolen your moment away. Don’t let that “thief” be your own stubbornness. Turn to Jesus today and plead with others to join you!