SCRIPTURE: Revelation 9:1-21
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
The vision is symbolic, but it is still horrific. If we attribute the brutality of what happens to God, its hard to fathom how He could allow it. But when we recall that this is the outworking of our sinful rebellion, that this is the curse resulting from our immorality and selfishness, then we are humbled and led to the point of repentance. Unfortunately, even then many people do not repent (vv.20-21).
The angels, under God’s direction, are guiding and directing the evil that we unleashed in this world. God is not the cause of evil, but neither does He allow it to gain the upper hand. By our own free choice we have turned this world into miserable, horrible place. But God is steering our evil choices towards a better conclusion. He does not prevent evil (we are free beings), but He does restrain and direct it, in the hope that we will repent and return to Him.
We need to accept responsibility, and quit looking for excuses to justify ourselves, or to shift the blame to God. God is waiting for us to repent, to admit our guilt and shame, and to change our hearts and our ways. He will help us, if we are willing.
PRAYER:
Lord, in my own life there are sins that lead to misery and suffering for myself and others. They may not be as big as what this prophecy describes, but they are real. And I need to deal with them… Help me to repent sincerely! Amen.
The first four were God’s judgements. The fifth angel sounded the trumpet and power was given to torture the people, yet not harm the creation nor kill the people. This was for all who did not have the seal of God on their foreheads. No response of the people to God.
The sixth angel released the power to kill, but the people did not repent of their wicked ways.
Oh that I may see His handiwork each and every day. Create in me a clean heart oh God that I may see Your handiwork in this Creation each and every day – Your presence, Your might, Your power, Your awesomeness. Help me to walk in Your lighted Way by the power of Your Spirit to lead and guide me always.
I am weak and I need Thy strength and power,
To help me over my weakest hour.
Let me through the darkness Thy face to see,
Let me, oh Lord lead me.
Lead me, guide me along the way,
For if you lead me I cannot stray.
Lord let me walk each day with Thee.
Lead me, oh Lord lead me.
Help me tread in the paths of righteousness.
Be my aid when Satan and sin oppress.
I am putting all my trust in Thee:
Lead me, oh Lord lead me.
I am lost if you take your hand from me,
I am blind without Thy light to see.
Lord just always to me thy servant be,
Lead me, oh Lord lead me.