As I began writing this morning, it was difficult. As one who loves much, it was hard for me to see the reality of the seven bowls of God’s wrath being poured out. So as I write, it’s with hope and much love that we can see our God as a good loving Father, but also a God of justice and truth.
John heard “A loud voice from the temple saying to the seven angels, “Go, pour out the seven bowls of God’s wrath on the earth.” (Revelation 16: 1)
I confess I liked seeing bowls filled with prayers much better.
At this point, no one could enter the temple since it was filled with smoke and glory, too thick to enter. God himself must have initiated the horrific judgments. These are the third woes describe in Revelation 11: 4.
I like the commentary that says, “These are the chastisements (with the purpose of bringing repentance) as much as punishments (with the purpose of dispensing justice). (David Guzik)
As we read through these judgments, some have asked if these are symbolic, since they are similar to the plagues in the book of Exodus.
God’s judgment of this world will not be symbolic judgment.
Here’s a very short synopsis of what’s displayed in the Great Tribulation.
The first angel–poured out his bowl on the land. Ugly and painful sores broke out on the people who had the mark of the beast and worshiped his image.
The second angel--poured out his bowl on the sea. It turned to blood like that of a dean man, and every living thing in the sea died.
The third angel--poured out his bowl on the rivers and springs of water and they became blood.
Even in judgments, God is just. The angel in charge of the waters says, “Yes, Lord God Almighty, true and just are your judgments.” (Revelation 16: 7)
The fourth angel–poured out his bowl on the sun and the sun was given power to scorch people with fire.
The fifth angel–poured out his bowl on those of the beast and his kingdom was plunged into darkness.
The sixth angel–poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up to prepare the way for the kings from east.
“Behold, I come like a thief! Blessed is he who stays awake and keeps his clothes with him, so that he may not go naked and be shamefully exposed.” (Revelation 16: 15)
Then the kings are gathered together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon–the final overthrow of evil by God.
The seventh angel–poured out his bowl into the air. Out of the temple a loud voice from the throne saying, “It is done!”
- Jesus said upon the cross, “It is finished!”
A severe earthquake occurs. No earthquake like it has ever occurred since man has been on earth. The city split into three parts and the cities of the nations collapsed. Islands are fled away and mountains could not be found. “From the sky huge hailstones of about a hundred pounds each fell upon men.” (Revelation 16: 21)
Unfortunately, yet, some still cursed God and would not repent.
(Shared from Revelation 16, Modified)
God’s Unfailing Love Will Never Change
The Psalmist points out, “He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and He guided them to their desired haven.” (Psalm 107: 29)
- We can be off course for a long time and still reach the safe haven (heaven).
- Ask for His guidance.
- He loves giving direction and showing us the way.
- He is the only way.
Why does not all of mankind turn to our God? “He turned the desert into pools of water and the parched ground into flowing springs; there He brought the hungry to live, and they founded a city were they could settle.” (Psalm 107: 35-36)
The Psalmist concludes, “Whoever is wise let him heed these things and consider the great love of the Lord.”
(Shared from Psalm 107: 23-43, Modified)
Triumph For The Jews
Mordecai left the king’s presence wearing royal garments. “The city of Susa held a joyous celebration. For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor.” (Esther 8: 16)
- We are clothed in the King’s righteousness, as His children.
- What we never earned, He freely gave.
Mordecai was now a prominent person in the palace, with his reputation spreading throughout the provinces and he became more and more powerful.
- Obedience to the king will give you a place of honor.
The king sees the victories of the Jews in the battles and he asks Esther, once again, “What is your petition?” Esther answered, “If it pleases the king, give the Jews in Susa permission to carry out the day’s edict tomorrow also and let Haman’s ten sons be hanged on gallows.” (Esther 9: 13)
So it shall be written, so it shall be done. It was done! Her petition was granted.
The Feast of Purim was established and still is celebrated today. Each year a joyous Jewish festival commemorating the survival of the Jews who were marked for death by their Persian rulers. Esther’s obedience saved a nation.
- Your obedience and faithfulness are not a small thing. Others might be in heaven because of your witness.
Mordecai was held in high esteem by his people, the Jews because he worked for the good of his people and spoke up for the welfare of all of them.
- When it’s time to speak up, just do it!
Stay awake there’s still work to be done. “I sleep, but my heart is awake; It is the voice of my beloved!” (S.O.S. 5: 2)
(Shared from Esther 9-10, Modified)
UNBROKEN LOVE SERIES
You can find all of the Unbroken Love series posts by clicking the button below.
Comments are closed.