Names

712.  "Names"
March 12, 2013
Summary of Revelation

Names have meanings. It is fun to look up what our means. There is one who has several name in the Bible-Jesus Christ.
As I pondered what to share for today, I realized this book is loaded with descriptive words/names of Jesus Christ. I wanted to share with you what I found:

• The Faithful Witness (1:5)
• The first begotten of the dead (1:5)
• The Prince of the kings of the earth (1:5)
• Alpha, Omega, beginning, and end (1:8; 21:6; 22:13)
• The Almighty (1:8)
• The Son of man (1:13;14:14)
• The Son of God (2:18)
• He that is holy (3:7)
• He that is true (3:7)
• He that hath the Key of David (3:7)
• The Amen (3:14)
• The faithful and true witness (3:14)
• The beginning of the creation of God (3:14)
• The Lion of the tribe of Judah (5:5)
• The Root of David (5:5)
• The Lamb (6:1;7:14)
• Lord God Almighty (11:17)
• His Christ (12:10)
• King of saints (15:3)
• God, who liveth for ever and ever (15:7)
• Righteous, O Lord (16:5)
• Lord of lords (17:14)
• King of kings (17:14)
• God that sat on the throne (19:4)
• our God (19:5)
• The Lord God omnipotent (19:6)
• Faithful and True (19:11)
• The Word of God (19:13)
• KING OF KINGS, LORD OF LORDS (19:16)
• The Great God (19:17)
• The First and the Last (22:13)
• The Root and Offspring of David (22:16)
• The Bright and Morning Star (22:16)

What a list! He is everything we need! I He everything we want?

Earlier, Jesus said in John 14:6, I am the Way, the Truth and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.

Believing that Jesus is the Savior, the Messiah, is the only way to come to God the Father. Have you come?

Either we reign with Him or we run from Him.

I pray that you will come to know my gracious and merciful Savior as your Lord, too.

I thank you for being so faithful in walking with me on the exciting journey through the New Testament, friends, brothers and sisters in Christ. It has taken almost 3 years. Some day will will meet and join together in praising our Lord and sharing our life's story. I will be venturing into the Old Testament next, so you are invited to join me.

Until then-Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen (Rev. 7:12)

May the Lord bless you,
Linda

The End is Only the Beginning

709.  "The End is only the Beginning"
March 11, 2013
Revelation 22-Part 32
He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly, Amen. Even so, come Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.  Revelation 22:20-21 KJV

LET IT GLOW

Isn't it exciting to get a hand-written letter, note, or card? I think so. Verse 20 is  like Jesus Himself has signed this book at the end. Of course, He IS the author, penned by John.

Here is the benediction. Benediction comes from a latin word, bene, meaning well and dicere, meaning to say. It has been an ancient custom for leaders to dismiss a congregation or close a letter with a "good word," a blessing. After all the visions of John and the descriptions of eternal destinies of both believer and unbelievers, our Lord Jesus Himself offers this good word of reassurance:
Yes, I am coming quickly.

How does John respond? He adds "Amen" to Jesus' words. Amen comes from a Hebrew exclamation based on a verb that means to confirm, support, uphold; to be certain. A literal rendering could be, "So be it!"

Then John added a personal prayer: "Come, Lord Jesus!" This last phrase may be derived from an Aramaic saying common among first-century Jewish Christians: Maranatha, or "Our Lord, come!" The Aramaic word mare was the word used to refer to YHWH-the divine name. So here, at the end of Revelation, John confesses Jesus as the God-Man who is coming soon.

[Resource: Swindoll's New Testament Insights on Revelation]

The Old Testament concluded by mentioning a curse (Mal. 4:4-6), while the New Testament ends with a blessing of grace (22:21). (J. Vernon McGee)

LET IT GROW

If you are like me, you still have some questions that are not yet answered. Perhaps we will be experiencing some of what was foretold to John. We may just be the generation that is caught up with Him in the air when the trumpet sounds.

Oh, friends, it is hard for me to end our study of the New Testament, much less our study of Revelation. But in reality, the end is only the beginning; the end of the world will be the beginning of a new world and new heaven. Now that is exciting!

As John said in verse 21, I shall conclude also: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

As John wrote the end of the book, I want to spend a little time for personal reflecting:

• My daughter exposed me to blogging back in 2010. In fact, she set up everything for me and instructed me along the way.
• While reading Lysa TerKeurst's book, What Happens When Women say Yes to God, that I surrendered to the possibility of writing a study through the New Testament.
• My first purpose was to leave a legacy of intertwining the Scriptures with my childhood experiences for my children and grandchildren to read. It is my prayer that they will grow as a Christian and perhaps use some of these writings in their sharing of the gospel and ministry.
• I found that as I began spending hours researching and reading commentaries, my faith was challenged and growing. I began to hunger more for the Word of God.
• I realize that God has used me to be a missionary while staying on my country road of faith, at home. Through internet, I have been able to reach not only my nation, but countries around the world, with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
• To God be the glory and all credit goes to Him for any good that has been accomplished.
• I agree with Luann Prater of Proverbs 31 who wrote, "God didn't show me the entire road ahead, just the next step."
• It is my prayer that you have found a stronger faith, or perhaps new faith, in our Lord Jesus Christ through any of my efforts; that my writings and research of the writings of others, has equipped you to better live for Him and share His love in your world.
• So I want to thank you dear friends for sitting down with me on my country road of faith, sharing your experiences, sending encouragment to me. You are loved by me and the Master Teacher.
• If you are interested, I am going to continue my walk of faith, stepping into the Old Testament. So come along with me when you can. May I add, please pray for me as I seek God's wisdom and words each day. 
• I will post one more time on Revelation, doing a summary of the scriptures that stood out to me. As this road has come to an end, I must continue to walk with Jesus by faith, taking the fork in the road of my life, into the Old Testament. Will you join me? 
• As the song says, His love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me.
• Nothing can seperate us from the love of God. 

LET IT GO

Give my time to God to use for His purpose and will to be accomplished.

Surrender my thoughts, heart, and life to Him.

Share the truth in love with others.

REPENT OF MY SINS.

Quote 1 Chronicles 4:10 daily.

Keep on keepin' on, y'all.

Have You Received Your Invitation Yet?

708.  "Have You Received Your Invitation Yet?"                March 8, 2013
Revelation 22-Part 31
And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. and let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.  Revelation 22:17 KJV

The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come, and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life. NIV



LET IT GLOW

Have you received your invitation yet? Oh, don't go to the mailbox outside or the inbox on your email to look for it, because  it won't be there. I'm talking about the invitation that the Holy Spirit writes upon your heart. The one that He sends out to the lost, to come to Jesus.

If you have received the invite, how did you answer? Are you going? Have you accepted it yet? I got mine when I was 16 and accepted it. How about you?

If not, then why? Everything has been paid for, so it is all free to the recipient. Please say yes and come to Jesus. Ask Him to forgive you of your sins, come into your heart, and be your Savior.

Jesus lovingly awaits your answer. The invite may not come again. Today is the day of salvation. Don't put it off any longer, friend. Your eternal life depends upon it.
Come, so you can be a part of the celebration in heaven with us. Jesus has His hand outstretched to you.

Here are three invitations:

1. To the one who hears,
2. To the one who is thirsty, living water is extended without cost,
3. To the one who will come.

This is an unlimited offer of grace and salvation to all who desire to have their thirsty souls quenched.
Is your soul thirsty for God? Do you hear His invitation? Will you be the one to come today? I am praying for you.

LET IT GROW

Verse 18 has a stern warning-if you add to the Words, God will add to him the plagues described in this book; if you take Words away, God will take away from him his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, described in this book.

That is a serious thing, to add or take away from what John wrote in Revelation. Don't even treat it carelessly, but take it seriously. God will punish anyone who does such a thing. It is the inspired Word from God.

Swindoll says there are other ways of altering God's Word, other than using the pen or eraser:

• disobeying-willfully rebelling against clear commands of Scripture,
• disregarding-intentionally ignoring what is wwritten,
• distorting-purposely twisting the true meaning of God's Word to accomodate our opinions,
• diluting-adding other traditions, texts, or teachers as "authoritative truth."

Keep the words of God by hearing, accepting, internalizing, and applying them to our daily lives.

LET IT GO

Let go of sin and come to Jesus.

Let go of pride and come to Jesus.

Let go of the world and come to Jesus.

Accept His free gift of salvation today, friend.

Trees

707.  "Trees"   March 6, 2013
Revelation 22-Part 30
Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.  Revelation 22:14

LET IT GLOW

As a child, I learned to climb trees. Why, I can't say. Maybe it was because I was short and being
up in a tree allowed me to be able to look down upon things. We had a tall pine tree in our front yard that was a challenge to climb, due to the branches being far apart, but I could shimmy up it, slowly, Then I would enter my pretended domain. Now the old tree stands dead, with the top blown out from a strong wind seven years ago. I am sad to see it shed its bark and gradually loose its branches. The other day, an eagle sat on one branch, looking down at me. I know that one day it will have to come down. Until then, I will remember those times and continue to pick up broken branches and shed bark. There will be another tree that I will become fond of in the future, the tree of life.

The tree of life is a symbol of both eternal life and continual blessing (Gen. 2:9). The tree bears twelve fruits, one for each month, and is symbolic of the abundant variety in heaven. The leaves somehow enrich heavenly life, making it full and satisfying. (MacArthur)

Here are five declarations by Jesus which summarize the message of Revelation. They are:

1. Behold, I am coming quickly. (verses 7 and 12) The word quickly means shortly, suddenly, without delay, soon, readily, according to Strong's Concordance. Less we think 2,000 years is not very quick, it has more to do with the suddenness of the event rather than how soon.
2. My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done. (verse 12) When Jesus returns, He will bring judgment to those who reject His free salvation by grace through faith. The time for repentance will expire and their eternal destiny will be sealed.
3. I am the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. (verse 13) In the Greek alphabet, alpha is what the first letter is called, and omega is what the last letter is called. The letters of an alphabet convey knowledge when combined to form words. Christ is the supreme, sovereign alphabet. He is the source of all that is true, from beginning to end.
4. Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city. (verses 14-15) Saved, forgiven, believers in Jesus Christ will be the only ones allowed to enter the gates of the New Jerusalem. Their sins have been washed away by the blood of the Lamb of God.
5. I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things for the churches. I am the root of the descendant of David, the bright morning star. (verse 16) Jesus ties his reputation as Son of David and Son of God to the prophecies of this book. The words of this book are faithful and true because they were given by the One who is altogether faithful and true. (Swindoll)

Will we heed His words?
What will be my last words?

LET IT GROW

I don't want to be like one of these morally impure mentioned in verse 15:

• dogs-a man of an impure mind
• sorcerers-Pertaining to magical arts (Thayer's Concordance); an enchanter with drugs (Strong's Concordance)
• murderers
• idolaters
• liars

Unfaithful leaders (Is. 56:10) and homosexual prostitutes (Deut.23:18) are among those who received such a designation. (MacArthur)

Those mentioned are excluded from within the gates and walls of the New Jerusalem.

LET IT GO

Look to Jesus, the first and last.

Keep looking for Jesus' return.

Be sure my robe, heart, is washed in the blood of the Lamb, Jesus.







  

The 5 W's

706. "The 5 W's"          March 5, 2013
Revelation 22-Part 29
And he said to me, These sayings are faithful and true; and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. 
Revelation 22:6 KJV 

LET IT GLOW

While in school I remember the 5 W's that we used in reading or telling about a story, a book, or even writing. I think they will apply here:

Who? The Lord God sent His angel to His servants. (verse 6)
What? He sent the sayings of the prophecy of this book. They are faithful and true.
When? The time is at hand. (verse 10) It will be shortly done. (verse 6) Jesus is coming quickly.
             (verse 7) It's the end of this age.
Where? It's talking about the old world as we know it, and the beginning of the new world.
Why? So we can serve God. (verse 3)

We are promised a blessing to whoever heeds the words of the book in light of the soon coming of Christ. (verse 7) It has been a blessing to study in depth this book, which I have avoided some 40 years. It has been challenging me, also.

Do we believe what is faithful and true? It's warnings and blessings come from God the Father, through Christ, by the power of the prophetic Spirit, and could not be more reliable. This inspired source of truth can be trusted. (Swindoll)

Do we anticipate what has been predicted? Truly I have spoken; truly I will bring it to pass. I have planned it, surely I will do it. (Isaiah 46:11) We are to live in a constant state of readiness, always looking to Christ, the author and finisher of our faith.

Will we heed what has been revealed? Hearing isn't the same as heeding. Heeding implies responding to admonitions and obeying commands. The primary purpose of prophecy is not knowledge but obedience. By seeing the ultimate consequences of sin, we should turn away from wickedness in our own lives. (Swindoll)

Things to ponder.

LET IT GROW

The angel completed his message to John by instructing him not to seal up the prophecy of the book (verse 10). It was meant to be read, studied, understood, and applied, not sealed up and stacked on a shelf to collect dust. They warnings of this book must be proclaimed in order to turn as many as possible away from the lake of fire. At the same time, we believers must keep our eternal home in the center of our current hope, letting its truths purify us as we await our coming Lord. (Swindoll)

Could the final words of the angel be warning: You wrong-doers, go ahead and keep doing wrong. Just see what happens in the end. All unclean sinners, keep rolling in the mud. If you ignore God's free grace for cleansing, you will be ashamed later. You righteous and holy saints, keep practicing righteousness and keep being holy. In due time, you will get your reward.

Worship God, is what the angel told John as he got caught up in the moment and bowed to the angel. God alone is to be worshiped, only Him. It can only be done through Jesus, for God cannot look upon sin. Jesus covers us with His blood, washing our heart clean, when we confess our sins and ask forgiveness. I recall the first of the Ten Commandments-Thou shalt have no other gods before me. (Ex.20:3)
And Jesus said the greatest of those commandments was Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. (Matt. 22:37)

LET IT GO

Love God most and first.

Heed His Words.

Look for His coming.

Share the truth with others.










 

Paradise

705.  "Paradise" March 5, 2013
Revelation 22-Part 28
And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.  Revelation 22:1 KJV

LET IT GLOW

What do you consider paradise? (Paradise is defined as heaven in Webster's Dictionary.)

I think it would be paradise to live in a place where everyone loved each other and got along without fussing; where pain no longer existed due to a resurrected body; where evil was completely wiped out; sin was banished; where I didn't tire from working; no complaining, only joyful and grateful attitudes; love was always expressed. The list could go one. Won't you share  your ideas of paradise?

"A Paradise Regained" is how Falwell described the contents of chapter 22. The scene shifts from the New Jerusalem above the earth to heaven itself. This chapter reveals beautifully that what was lost in Genesis is regained in the Revelation.

Liberty Bible Commentary describes what is revealed in this chapter. What shall be there?

• The pure river of water of life, described as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and the Lamb. It speaks of fullness of refreshment, life, and joy (Ps. 36:8). There are heavenly and earthly streams of blessing: earthly in Ezekiel 47:1 and Zechariah 14:8; heavenly in this passage. All comes from the seat of His blessed government. (verse 1)
• The tree of life is in the midst of the street, on the other side of the river. Satisfying fruit will be there in abundance for the saints to partake of. Even the leaves will promote the sustained health of the nations. (verse 2)
• The throne of God and of the Lamb will be there. (verse 3b)
• God's servants will gladly serve Him; shall see God's face, since they have a glorified body; the name of God will be in their foreheads; they shall reign forever with King Christ. (verse 3-5)

Quite a description, isn't it?
Do I allow the Holy Spirit to give me pure thoughts? a pure life?

LET IT GROW

What will be banished, wiped out completely, forever?

• The curse brought on the human family through the disobedience of Adam (Gen. 3:14-19) will be wiped out completely. It was paid for at Calvary by Jesus Christ. (verse 3a)
• Night, thus, darkness, will be banished forever for the believer. It always flees in the presence of light (John 1:5). God and Christ are the eternal light of the world, so there will be no need for candles nor the sun. (Falwell)

In the Celestial City, evil, sorrow, suffering,sin, and selfishness will not exist. Death will never enter our minds. (Swindoll)

Are you feeling homesick yet? If we can smile there, I expect my face muscles to be sore for a while from smiling so much.

LET IT GO

Can I let go of the world and my worldly goods in order to live in Paradise?

Take others with me to Paradise, heaven.

Stay faithful to my Lord Jesus.

Light

704.  "Light"              March 4, 2013
Revelation 21-Part 27
And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.  Revelation 21:23  KJV

LET IT GLOW

Before we end this chapter, I wanted to touch on one more thing-light. Maybe I never noticed our key verse before, or perhaps it just never jumped out at me before now. At any rate, I am sad that there will be no more beautiful sunrises, sunsets, nor full moons shining around the new earth. Some of the sunsets that I have seen were gorgeous. And there was a full moon so close that I could have lassoed it if I had had a rope. Not long ago, there were planets visible close to the moon. Did you see them? I recall when a child, the early morning sun shining through my eastern bedroom window. What a good way to start a day. It brightens up my days during the long, dark winter.

I know, I won't be sad with the absence of the sun and moon. There will not be a need for them, according to verse 23. Why not? Because the glory of God and the Lamb will enlighten it. The night will be vanished. No more street lights, front porch lights, night lights. (No more electric company?)

It was on the fourth day that the Lord created the sun, moon, and stars to illumine the earth. They mark the passing of seasons, years, months, and days, thus, the passing of time. Since the new earth will not require these sources of light, there will be no seasons. (Does that means no white new fallen snow, no beautiful leaves, no sparkling green grass, nor a hot summer?)

The darkness will be done away with so sin, evil Satan, temptations will not be present. The Shekinah glory of God will illuminate the new heaven and earth. So the spiritual darkness will be removed. We were in darkness until we came to the light-Jesus Christ. Earlier in the gospel of John, he spoke about light. (John 1:1-5, 8:12, 12:35-36)

Jesus said in John 8:12, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
1 Thessalonians 5:5 says, Ye are the children of light and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

Am I allowing God's light to shine through me into a world of sin and darkness?

LET IT GROW

Verse 24 states, And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honor into it.

According to John, the truth that Christ lived, taught, and placed within believers is also the light in which He calls us to walk (1 John 1:5-7). When we walk in the light, we have fellowship with God and one another. But if we walk in darkness and say we have fellowship with God, we lie and do not the truth.

Am I walking in the light spiritually?
Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ. Philipians 1:27

Even the nations will walk in this light (verse 24). They will pass through open gates, entering the presence of God without hindrance or hesitation (verses 25-26).

Redeemed people from every nation and ethnic group will dwell in heaven's light. In the eternal city, there will be no more divisions, barriers, or exclusions because of race or politics. all kinds of peoples in eternity dissolve into the one people of God, and they will move freely in and about the city.  (MacArthur)

LET IT GO

Let Jesus shine through me.

Walk as Jesus walked.

Serve the Lord with gladness.

Open-House Tour

703.  "Open-House Tour" March 1, 2013
Revelation 21-Part 26
And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God. Revelation 21:10 KJV

LET IT GLOW

Have you ever been on an open-house tour? I haven't, but would like to go on one. Either a house is empty and for sale, or the owners want to show off their decorating at Christmastime. Would you like to join me on an open-house tour of the Celestial City of Jerusalem? Let's step on the bus of faith and listen to John as the tour guide. It will be our ultimate, eternal residence, so I am getting excited to have a sneak preview.

The new Jerusalem already exists, since John saw it coming down out of heaven in verse 2. This is the city Abraham looked for, the city whose builder and maker is God (Heb. 11:10). This is the city that exists even now in heaven, for Paul calls it the Jerusalem that is above (Gal. 4:26). (MacArthur)

Charles R. Swindoll gives us a closer look in his book Swindoll's New Testament Insights on Revelation concerning the Celestial City:

1. The origin-It is a new Jerusalem, a real place created by God as the dwelling of all the redeemed of all ages. It's the place Jesus had in mind when He went to prepare a place for us (John 14:2-3).
2. The appearance-John used two words to convey its stunning appearance: glory and brilliance, which mean the same thing: the brilliant glory of God, compared to a jasper, unblemished, perfectly clear diamond.
3. The exterior-a great high wall with 12 gates and 12 foundations; on the gates were the names of the 12 tribes of Israel and on the foundations were the 12 apostles' names, representing the Old and New Testament believers.
4. The dimensions-1,500 miles along each wall, as a cube. This massive city could never fit on the present earth, but will fit on the new earth.
5. The materials-The foundation is every  kind of jewel (19-20). The city itself is crystal clear and the massive wall surrounding it is transparent glass (21:11,18). The gate leading into the city will be created from one giant pearl (21:21).
6. The distinctive characteristic-No temple is in it, for the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb are its temple (21:22).There will be no need for a special building set aside for worship.
7. The brilliance-No seasons and no light source other than God will illumine heaven and earth with His own glory; no more night and darkness (22:3-5).
8. The blessing-access to the tree of life, planted in rows on either side of the river of life flowing from the throne of God and Christ (22:1-2); no more sin and curse will result in disharmony, disease, and death.

There are several views on our eternal home. The Bible describes it here for us. Men have used their imaginations persuading and deceiving people into believing in the reincarnation of other life forms (Buddhists, Hindus, New Agers), a state of nothingness (Taoists), a paradise of 70 virgins satisfying carnal pleasures of men (some Muslims and cults), becoming gods and goddesses of your own world and populating with your own spirit-babies (Mormons). (Swindoll)

Are you ready to go to the New City? The only way we can enter in is by believing in Jesus Christ as Savior and Messiah, and asking Him to forgive us of our sins.

LET IT GROW

Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life. NIV (verse 27)

ESL uses the words detestable or false; KJV uses defiled, abomination or lie; NLT  uses idolatry and dishonesty.

The gates to this new city will not be shut, but will be open continuously (verse 25). Since sin will not be present, there will be no need for protection at night, there will be no night. To me, that means there is no fear present, either. What will there be to fear? God is ever-present and in charge.
My mind wonders what we will be doing there. The Bible doesn't give details, however, we will be worshiping and praising God and Jesus.
Glory to His name!

LET IT GO

Watch my words and ways today.

Focus on that city.

Help others step on the bus of faith.

Shall and Will

702. "Shall and Will"      February 28, 2013
Revelation 21-Part 25
And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. Revelation 21:1 KJV


LET IT GLOW

Who doesn't like new things? New clothes are exciting to wear, but I don't particularly like to break in new shoes. Last year I painted the doors and door facings a bright pink, then bought hot pink curtains to match in our computer room/playroom. (Of course, the decor had to be pink, also.) So it is like having a new room.

John is seeing some new things in this chapter. He sees a new heaven, a new earth, and a new Jerusalem. He got a preview before anyone else. This present fallen universe will be done away with, replaced. Instead of living in a sin-twisted, broken down, and bruised world, we who know and love Jesus Christ will have a new place to live, forever. We read about this happening in 2 Peter 3, Psalm 102:25-26, Luke 21:33, Isaiah 65:17, 66:22. There will be no seas, which will make for a different climatic condition. Does it mean that there will be no rain, no snow, no storms, since the seas evaporate to form them?

New, kainos in Greek, means different from the usual, impressive, better than the old, superior in value or attraction, according to Theological Dictionary of the New Testament.

In 20:11, John watched as the earth and heaven fled away, along with the associated contaminations of sin. The new ones, created by a perfect God who does perfect work, these will be perfect places existing in a perfect environment. John described the new city in terms of a bride adorned for her husband.  Do you think it will be pure, radiant, lovely, elegant, and stunning?

Does the new Jerusalem already exist, since it will "come down out of heaven?" According to John 14:1-3, this is the city where the saints will live. All the saints (bride) will live with Christ (groom) in the Father's house, as was the tradition of the Jews.
I can't imagine how wonderful it will be.

What are some things that will be missing from the new heaven and new earth? There will be no more:

• sea (v.1)
• tears (v.4)
• death (v.4)
• mourning (v.4)
• crying (v.4)
• pain (v.4)
• thirst (v.6)
• wickedness (v.8,27)
• temple (v.22)
• night (v.23-25)
• closed gates (v.25)
• curse (22:3).

LET IT GROW

Shall means (first person) expressing the future: am or are going to or sure to; (second or third person ) must. Will means expressing the future: am, is, are, etc. about to, sure to, determined to, etc.; expressing desire, wish, want; is able to, can.

God tells us that He shall/will do these in verses 1-8:

• dwell with men
• be with his people
• be their God
• wipe away all tears from their eyes
• take away death, sorrow, crying, and pain
• make all things new
• give to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life without cost (NAS)
• give an inheritance of all things to the overcomer and be his God.

Is there anything more that we could want? Friend, will you be there with me to enjoy all of this? The only way is through faith in Jesus, confessing sins, and asking Him to be your Savior.

LET IT GO

Hold things loosely so I can let go of them when God requires them.

Get ready for a new earth.

Prepare for a new heaven.

Tell others about Jesus and His ssalvation so they can be with me.

Is Your Name Written in the Book?

701.  "Is Your Name in the Book?"
Revelation 20-Part 24  Verses 11-15
And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.  Revelation 20:15

LET IT GLOW

Is your name written in the book?
I have a distant cousin, with whom I share the same great-grandfather, that has spent a lot of time researching and writing the history of our family. (His grandfather and mine were brothers.) He wrote the names of our ancestors, then brought the lines down to the names of our children and grandchildren. My name is written in that book. It is a big deal to me, seeing my name in a book listed along with the names of kings.

My name  is also written in another book, the book of life. Now that's the one that really counts, the most important book there is. It contains an eternal list of names. Believers in the Old Testament times were saved by grace, through faith, as they trusted in God's promises and honored the old covenant. Their names are written in it. When Jesus initiated the new covenant, He told His disciples, Rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven (Luke 10:20). So the New Testament believers' names are there.
We are justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the Law (Gal. 2:16). We will not be summoned to stand before the great white throne. Believers, whose names are written in the book of life, will never receive punishment based on their deeds.

Are you rejoicing with me that our names are written in the book of life? And that God chose us to be one of His children? His grace did it, in spite of us all being sinners. It was nothing that we did or could do to earn our salvation nor heaven. It is His gift. Have you accepted this gift?

If anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. (verse 15).

What more can I say?

LET IT GROW

Great describes the most awesome assize ever held. White refers to the purity and holiness with which it will be conducted. Throne is mentioned nearly 50 times in Revelation. It indicates that majestic authority is involved.  This is the judgment throne, elevated, pure, and holy. God sits on it as judge, in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Liberty Bible Commentary explains that there are seven judgments, 1 past, 1 present, and 5 in the future. They are the judgments of:

1. the Cross-man's sins at Calvary and Satan were judged there.
2. the sinning believer-if he doesn't judge himself.
3. the believers' works-takes place at the Rapture, at the judgment seat of Christ in heaven, where rewards or suffering loss occurs.
4. upon Israel-after the Tribulation Period, those who reject or receive their Messiah.
5. the nations-after the Tribulation Period, based upon acceptance or rejection of Christ, manifested in their treatment of the earthly brethren of our Lord.
6. the fallen angels and Satan- time and place is not specific for the angels, but the beast and false prophet will be judged before the reign of Christ and Satan after the 1000 years.
7. The Great White Throne Judgment-verses 11-15.

The sinner who rejected Christ will one day stand face-to-face before Him. The final doom of those whose name is not written in the Lamb's book of life will be cast into the lake of fire to exist there forever. So this is not ended on a downer, we believers in Christ will not appear before that judgment seat.

Am I sharing salvation with people so they don't have to appear before the Great White Throne of Judgment? (We don't know whose names are written in the Lamb's book of Life.)

LET IT GO

Be ready for judgment.

Rejoice that my name is in the Book of Life.

Share the gospel with other so they can go to heaven.

Lights

700.  "Lights"                 February 26, 2013
Revelation 20-Part 23
And he laid hold on the dragon that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years. Revelation 20:2

LET IT GLOW

We have read of many future events that John saw take place. Christ defeats all His enemies at Armageddon; Satan and his minions are bound for a thousand years while Jesus reigns on the earth; Satan's attempt to attack Christ and regain the world one final time. Despite all of that, the lake of fire is the final destination of Satan, the Antichrist, and his false prophet. Then the last curtain opens on the final reckoning of fallen humanity before God and the great white throne judgment.

Oh my goodness, what a time it all will be. Thank you, dear friends, for sticking with me through it all. I know I haven't been alone through the thick and thin of it. Some of the reading has been fairly rocky and rough to travel on, but we kept going. Keep thinking about the best is yet to come.

I have two overhead light bulbs in the middle of my room where my desk and computer are. This morning, both had burned out making it rather dark. I brought in the room a second lamp, which only shed light on a small area. Another piano light, I call it, glows over the other computer I don't use. They weren't sufficient light, though. So I did my reading of commentaries on the sofa  in the other room.I am thankful that my husband replaced the light bulbs. I said all that to show how we can have a little or lot of light. Just as we can have a lamp to give light on a certain area, so can the scriptures. Quite often, the angels shed some light on specific details which the Lord wants us to know about after we got the overall picture.

Remember my saying that I am no expert  Revelation? I wanted to remind you now, after reading chapter 20. You can make up your own mind about how and when events will take place. I am going to give you three that are out there.

1. Amillennialism-the figurative view, teaches that the real thousand-year kingdom ruled by Christ is not literal. They view verse 4 as the spiritual resurrection of believers when they are saved, then the church history period is symbolizing the 1,000 year reign. A means  no and millennialism means thousand years.
2. Premillennialism-the literal view, strongly argues for a literal kingdom. I suggests that Christ will return prior to a literal thousand-year reign. In Matthew 19:28-30 and Acts 1;6-8, it is referred to, as well as Old Testament minor prophecies. Pre means before.
3. Post millennialism refers to the thousand-year period as only symbolic of a golden age of righteousness and spiritual prosperity.It will be ushered in by the spread of the gospel during the present church age and brought to completion when Christ returns. He will reign in the hearts of believers in the church instead of literally on earth. Post means after.

There you have the three views, friends. Personally, I lean to the premillennialism view, since the minor prophets foretold of Christ's reign. We could always be a let it-let it happen as God has planned.
[Resources: Swindoll's New Testament Insights on Revelation, The MacArthur Bible Commentary]

Is my light shining for Jesus? Is His light in my life?

LET IT GROW

In verse 2, Satan is put into the abyss, shut in and sealed it over. He cannot deceive the nations for the 1,000 years. He'll be released for a short time, then finally cast into the lake of fire for ever and ever.(That's what I call good news.)
Remember those who had been martyred for their testimony of Jesus and the Word of God? They will resurrect and reign as priests for that millinnium. The rest of the dead won't be resurrected until it is over (verse 5). Satan and his followers will be released from his prison and deceive the nations, war against the saints, and lose. All those evil ones, Satan, Antichrist, False Prophet will be tormented forever.

So be aware that Satan is currently allowed to have his way in the world culture, society, politics, economics, and religion (1 John 5:19). Jesus is not yet exercising direct authority over the earth. (Heb. 2:8, 10:12-13) The unrighteous people are in the majority and in authority. (Swindoll)
These are only for a short time and then the reign and judgment of Christ. The choice is ours. On which side will we be?

LET IT GO

Let it light of Jesus shine in my life.

Turn from the world to Jesus.

Share His love.

Praise ye the Lord!

699.  "Praise ye the Lord!"
February 25, 2013
Revelation 19-Part 22


LET IT GLOW

Everyone join me in singing:
Hallelu, hallelu,hallellu, hallelujah!
Praise ye the Lord!

Growing up in Sunday School, we often sang that chorus.
In heaven, there will be a whole lot of singin' goin' on. That 's because of the joyful hearts.

The transliteration of alleluia (Praise the Lord!), a Hebrew word, appears four times in the New Testament; all in this chapter-verses 1,3,4,6. However, it does occur frequently in the Old Testament Psalms.
John MacArthur gives us five reasons for their praise:

1. God's deliverance of His people from their enemies. (verse 1)
2. God's meting out of justice. (verse 2)
3. God's permanent crushing of man's rebellion. (verse 3)
4. God's sovereignty. (verse 6)
5. God's communion with His people. (verse 7)

Sounds like some good reasons to me. Enemies are gone, justice is served, no more rebellion, god controls all, and we are with Him in heaven. What better is there?

The three attributes of God are mentioned in verse 1: Salvation, glory, and honor.
Each of these three great attributes of God should awaken its own response in the heart of man, and these responses taken together constitute real praise. The salvation of God should awaken the gratitude of man. The glory of God should awaken the reverence of man. The power of God is always exercised in the love of God, and should, therefore, awaken the trust of man. Gratitude, reverence, trust-these are the constituent elements of real praise. (W. Barclay)

How often do I show my gratitude, reverence, and trust to God?

O sing unto the LORD a new song; for He hath done marvellous things: His right hand, and His holy arm hath gotten Him the victory. The LORD hath made known His salvation: His righteousness hath He openly shewed in the sight of the heathen. Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise. Ps. 98:1, 2, 4 KJV


LET IT GROW

There are several descriptions for Jesus/God as His servants, those that fear Him, both small and great offer Him praise:

• God that sits on the throne,
• Amen,
• True and Righteous aer His judgments,
• Lord God Omnipotent reigneth (All Powerful),
• Faithful,
• True,
• The Word of God,
• King of kings,
• Lord of lords,
• The Great God.

He deserves our praise, too!

I can't end this chapter without sharing that the beast/Antichrist, along with his false prophet and worshipers will be cast into the Lake of Fire. Restitution is coming, so read on into chapter 20 for the next post.

Who reigns upon the throne of my heart?
How often do I praise my Savior?
Where do I praise Him, only in church?
Do others hear me praising the Lord with song and words?

LET IT GO

Praise ye the Lord, hallelujah!!!

Thank Him for salvation.

Reverence Him in all His glory.

Trust His powerful hands.

Sing His praises all day long with a joyful heart.

The Reception

698."The Reception"
Revelation 19-Part 21
And he saith unto me, Write, blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. Revelation 19:9a

LET IT GLOW

What woman doesn't like to go to a wedding? I have been to all kinds. Receptions vary from an extravagant buffet and lovely table settings to outside standin'  without food; music varied from a tuxedo violinist to country and western music and cowboy boots and hats; the couple ride away in a high-class car or on a horse. I want to say that I've seen it all, but probably not yet.

This chapter is describing a marriage supper of a different kind-the marriage supper of the Lamb. Will it be a literal banquet or a symbol for indescribable blessings? No one knows. What kind of food will be served? That great banquet will not be about the menu, but about the Master. Whatever is planned, I am sure it will be great. We will be excited to be invited and attending.

Christ will take His seat with the saints and enjoy that long-anticipated face-to-face fellowship with those He loves. (Swindoll)

Am I ready to go? The only way we can enter into this reception is to be clothed in the righteousness of Jesus described in verse 8.

LET IT GROW

There is going to be rejoicing, singing, worshiping, and praising God at this wedding described in chapter 19. The analogy of the church's marriage to Christ reflects these ancient Jewish wedding customs.
Charles Swindoll puts it this way:

• The engagement lasts for a year or more while arrangements for the ceremony were being made. the couple was considered legally married, though not living together. The bethrothal  could be broken only by a writ of diverce.
• After the preparations for the couples' future home were finished and the arrangements finalized, the groom would travel to his bride's home and bring her to the ceremony, presenting her as his bride.
• The wedding supper could last for days. The new bride and groom would depart the marriage supper with full rights, privileges, and responsibilities as husband and wife.
• At the wedding feast of the Lamb, the final consummation will begin as Christ and the church take their places to reign over the earth (Rev.20:4-6).

I don't want to miss this wedding feast! Are you going to be there? Jesus offers an invitation for you to attend. Just accept Him as your Savior.

LET IT GO

Make sure that I have accepted the invitation to the marriage supper of the Lamb.

Let go of this world and cling to Jesus.

Be a part of the church, the bride of Christ.

Big City Flattened

697. "Big City Flattened"
Revelation 18-Part 20
Rejoice over her, thou heaven, and ye holy apostles and prophets; for God hath avenged you on her.  Revelation 18:20

LET IT GLOW

Have you ever visited a big city? This country gal has only visited a few downtown. Mostly, I have seen them from the air as we were landing in an airplane. But there a few, like Memphis, Kansas City, St. Louis, Louisville, Providence, Las Vagas, San Palo, Brazil, that I have marveled at the sky rises and busy traffic on so many lanes of highway.
When I was a kid, Mom and I went to the big city of Joplin, Missouri to shop. I realize that it is not a "big" city to some, but back then, it was the only one close to us. (The only reason you are familiar with Joplin is because of the tornado that hit it a few years ago.) It is hared to imagine everything flattened and no activity, silence, in a city. That is what will happen to the Babylon in Revelation.

Babylon the great is fallen. Have you seen the devistation of a city hit by a tornado? Nothing stands. It is all down on the ground flat. And that is how I should be when God is before me-down on the ground, worshiping and praying to my God.

Just as the flattened city is astonishing, so it will be to the people of Babylon when God flattens it.
Imagine a busy, noisy city that suddenly has no more music, no industry, no luxuries, no preparing of food, no more power for light, no more weddings because God will destroy the deceivers and deceived. Life is totally disrupted and the end is near.

So what is the encouraging thing that I could find from this event?
The religious and commercial/political systems embodied in Babylon will commit unspeakable atrocities against God's people and He will avenge that slaughter of His people. (verse 2) The political leaders of the world will weep because the loss of their capital city will signal the doom of the Antichrist's empire, and with it, the source of their power. (MacArthur)


LET IT GROW

Rejoice amidsts the devastation?
In verse 20, the angel will exhort the tribulation martyrs (6:9-11) to rejoice, not over the deaths of those doomed to eternal hell, but because God's rightousness and justice will have prevailed. (MacArthur)

Do some feel that God's complete destruction of the world system is too extreme or unjust or simply uncalled for? The angel reminds us that Babylon had to go. Judgment was needed because all the nations were deceived by your sorcery. And in her was found the blood of prophets and of saints and of all who have been slain on the earth. (verses 23-24 NAS)

Only god is to be worshiped. He plainly told that way back in the Ten Commandments. Also, Jesus said that was the most important of the ten. He is a jealous God. (Ex.20:5, 34:14; Deut. 4:24, 5:9, 6:15) Israel, throughout their years, always had a problem with this.

Am I loving the Lord my God with all my heart, all my soul, all my mind, and all my strength?

LET IT GO

Don't be devastated if my town is devastated by an event.

Trust in Jesus, not things.

Rejoice in God's justice.

Pick Sides

696."Pick Sides"
February 20, 2013
Revelation 17-Part 19
These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them; for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings; and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.
Revelation 17:14

LET IT GLOW
 
I don't like it, but sometimes you have to pick sides. I'm sure you have had situations, like me, where you try to avoid it as long as possible, but the inevitable comes and you have to decide who you are for and who you are against. Right must preveail against the wrong. The people during the Tribulation will have to decide which side they are on-Bablyon and the devil or the Savior, Jesus Christ. That's what it will come do to towards the end.

Babylon will  loose again. Victorious is our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, the King of kings, and Lord of lords and His believers.

The war is a reference to the battle of Armageddon (16:14-16), where the Lamb will utterly destroy the king (19:17-21).

He (Jesus) has both by nature and by office, supreme dominion and power over all things; all the powers of earth and hell are subject to His check and control. His followers are called out by commission to this warfare; they are chosen and fitted for it, and will be faithful in it. (Matthew Henry)

The issue is never in doubt; it is victory for the Lamb and His redeemed (not angels) in heaven. (Falwell)

Am I on the side of the Lamb, Lord, and King? Am I a called, chosen, and faithful follower of Jesus?


LET IT GROW

Chapters 17 and 18 focus on one aspect of those bowl  judgments, the judgment of Babylon. (MacArthur)

Since there is no timetable for the events of the seven bowls of God's wrath, we are peeking into some details in between.

Charles Swindoll tells us that Babylon refers to the Antichrist's end-time religious/political/economic empire. It is not a specific city or country, but represents a final godless, humanistic, and worldwide religious system. The foundation of this man-made false religion is:
*rejection of God's promises-faithlessness,
*rebellion against God's commands-disobedience,
*refusal of God's grace-legalism.

Do you remember the story of the tower of Babel in Genesis 11? The descendants of Noah worked together on a tower that would reach to heaven, to make a great name for themselves. They refused God's order to scatter on the earth, until He confused them with various languages and work could not continue. Evidently, those people refused to believe God when He told them He would never flood the earth again, so they made their waterproof tower to keep from drowning. They thought they could get to heaven by their own works.
This is where Babylon in Daniel's day was located and Satan's empire will be located. (Swindoll believes it is modern day Iraq.)

God's grace and mercy is what we need so we don't fall into that trap. It is God's unmerited grace that saves us and is the same grace that keeps us.

Which side will you choose to be on?

LET IT GO

Stay true to the Lamb of God.

Don't trust in a system for my needs, but trust in the King of kings.

Make Jesus Lord of my life daily.

Pick the side I am on and stay true to the end-Jesus' side.

Yellow Bowl

695.  "Yellow Bowl"
Revelation 16-Part 18
And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, God your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth. Revelation 16:1 KJV

LET IT GLOW

I remember as a young child, Mom in the kitchen singing, preparing a meal. She would use a yellow glass bowl in which to mix up the homemade biscuits for breakfast. Sometimes I would help her cut them out, using the old, red biscuit cutter, on the pull-out board. If there was any raw dough left over, not big enough for a biscuit mind you, then I would get to eat it. That was over fifty years ago, but it is clearly stamped on my mind. I do miss her scrumptious hot biscuits with homemade blackberry jelly. Yum. (And of course I miss her, too.)
Now I use the same yellow bowl to mix up biscuits, cakes, or cookies with my granddaughter. She loves licking the beaters or the spoon when all is done. Needless to say, that old, faded, yellow bowl is very precious to me. Only I wash and handle it. (Not taking a chance on breakage) I was reminded of it when I read about seven bowls in chapter 16. However, these bowls are not full of pleasant things to eat.

These seven angels pour out of their seven bowls the wrath of God upon the evil ones and the unbelieving world. Here is a summary of the devastation of the plagues, according to Charles Swindoll and John MacArthur:

1. Malignant sores (painful, incurable cancer);only effected were those with the mark of the beast and who worshiped his image;
2. Poisoned seas by blood flowing and killing marine life;
3. Poisoned fresh water turned into blood, nothing safe to drink;
4. Humanity scorched by the searing rays from the sun; solar flares penetrating our atmosphere, causing all sorts of climate changes with catastrophic results;
5. Widespread darkness/misery results from the bowl being poured out on the Antichrist's throne;
6. Vast military invasion sets the stage for the infamous battle of Armageddon at the Euphrates River;
7. Most destructive earthquake/hail; islands and mountains are leveled by the earthquake; chunks of ice bring devastation and death; the Day of the Lord.

We could call the first four bowls, directed against the natural realm (earth, sea, waters, and sun), the natural disasters with a supernatural cause. It sounds like the ten plagues upon Egypt found in Exodus, doesn't it?

I found it difficult to read this chapter, didn't you? What good can I emphasize? God is in control, has it all planned out, is paying back the evil ones for what they did to God's children, putting an end to evil once and for all. That is the comfort I find. Jesus and His army of saints and angels win!!!!

LET IT GROW

After all seven bowls have been emptied, and God's wrath poured out, the evil ones destroyed, a voice proclaims, "It is done." Just like Jesus did before He died on the cross, He said, "It is finished."
The Great Tribulation is over.

All I can say is let's share the good news of a Savior, Jesus Christ, so people will be ready for eternity. Hang in there with me because supper is coming.

LET IT GO

Keep my faith in Jesus growing stronger by the day.

Share the plan of salvation with others.

Put everything into the right perspective, it's all going to burn up.

Stay on the winning side.

Who is Great and Marvelous?

694.  "Who is Great and Marvelous?
February 18, 2013
Revelation 15-Part 17
Great and marvelous are Your works,
O Lord God, the Almighty;
Righteous and true are Your ways,
King of the nations!
Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Your name?
For You alone are holy;
For all the nations will come and worship before You, for Your righteous acts have been revealed.
Revelation 15:3b-4

LET IT GLOW

A meteor hit Russia last week.
How great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God, the Almighty.
Snow fell upon my yard last weekend.
How great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God, the Almighty.
I am breathing, walking, talking, seeing, smelling, hearing, tasting today.
How great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God, the Almighty.

John is listening to the vast choir of tribulation redeemed saints singing their song of victory, before the throne of God and before God's wrath is finally outpoured on the earth. Our key verse is from Exodus 15:1-18 and Deuteronomy 32:1-43.

Author Charles Swindoll comments on these verses:
These songs refer to deliverance from Egypt through the ten plagues, God's defeat of the Egyptian army, and Israel's preparation for entrance into the Promised Land. Both songs, the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb, praise God for who He is and what He has done.
One commentator contrasted the two songs, Moses' song and the Lamb's song:

• sung at the Red Sea/sung at the crystal sea;
• triumph over Egypt/triumph over Babylon;
• tells how God brought His people out/tells how God brings His people in;
• was the first song in scripture/is the last;
• commemorated the execution of a foe, the expectation of the saints, the exaltation of the Lord/deals with the same three themes.

He is God the Almighty, the Righteous and true King, who alone is holy. Whether the songs are old or new, the purpose of worship is to glorify God for His awesome Person and awe-inspiring works.
Unlike teaching and preaching, musical ministry will endure throughout eternity.

Are we practicing our praising God now so we will be ready when we get to heaven?

LET IT GROW

Judgment is coming!
The end is near!
Repent!

Swindoll describes it as a message of doom from the temple of God. The seven angels have seven bowls full of God's wrath, the last seven plagues.

These angels are dressed as priests because they come for the sacrificing of a great sacrifice to the offended holiness and justice of God. (Seiss)

Bowl refers to a shallow, saucer-like dish used for boiling liquids as well as for drinking or pouring libations. (An Intermediate Greek-English Lexicon)

These shallow saucers were familiar items often associated with various function of the temple worship, such as wine (Amos 6:6) and blood sacrifice (Ex. 27:3). Their flat shallowness pictures how the divine judgments will be emptied instantly, rather than slowly poured, drowning those who refused to drink the cup of salvation. (MacArthur)

Plagues literally means blow or wound. Instead of long, drawn-out epidemics, these have sudden impacts-swift, severe, destructive, and fierce. These will be the last expression of God's wrath toward the inhabitants of the earth. They will climax at the Battle of Armageddon and the return of Christ. God's judgment will accomplish its purpose and come to an end. Its purpose is to avenge the holocaust inflicted on the saints at the hands of the Antichrist and his henchmen during the great tribulation. Its end will be the reward of the resurrected saints when they come to life and reign with Christ for a thousand years. (Swindoll)

Along with wrath, God's grace is revealed. His mercy during the tribulation delayed the full measure of judgment to give people an opportunity to repent (2 Peter 3:9). Don't presume on God's mercy. Postponed judgment is not the same as denied judgment.

What can we learn from this chapter?

• We should express gratitude for God's promise of protection. Do we have the hope of redemption and deliverance? Am I ready to be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air? (1 Thess. 4:17)
• We should be concerned for those who choose to reject Christ.Sanctify Christ as Lord in my heart, then be ready to make a defense to everyone who asks me to give an account for the hope that is in me. 
• Treat unbelievers with "gentleness and reverence." Show the sweet fruit of the Spirit, as in Galatians 5. (Swindoll)

Notice that the last verse says no man was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the the seven angels were fulfilled.

Why can they not enter? The temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power.
In Isaiah 6, he witnessed the same thing, the Lord sitting on His throne, lofty and exalted, with the heavenly temple filled with smoke.

The chapter began with and ended with the concept of finality and irretrievablility. (Falwell)

LET IT GO

Bless the Lord O my soul.
Worship His holy name.
Sing like never before, oh my soul.
Worship His holy name.

A New Song

692. "A New Song"
Revelation 14-Part 16
And they sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and elders; and no one could learn the song except the one hundred and forty-four thousand who had been purchased from the earth. Revelation 14:3 NAS

LET IT GLOW

Several years ago, we attended a Bible conference in Florida with many others. The mega church had a gigantic choir singing heavenly songs praising our Lord. They sang some old hymns and some new songs. What an experience for this country gal! I was so blessed during that time. John heard a wonderful choir, too. Shall we listen to his description?

In chapter 14, we immediately meet the Lamb of God standing in Jerusalem with the 144,000 Jewish witnesses who had been killed.
What is this group doing? They are singing a new song before the throne and the four living creatures and elders. Now this is one gigantic choir.
Is everyone joining in the singing? No, no one could learn the song except the 144,000 martyrs who had been purchased from the earth.
What else do we know about these faithful saints?

• They are sexually chaste.
• They follow the Lamb without hesitation.
• they have no lies on their lips.
• They are blameless.

In their relationship with others, they are pure; in their relationship with God, they are obedient. They are living proof of the gospel being authentic.
If we are known for moral failures, nobody will listen when we claim to be followers of the one true God. (Swindoll)

Is my lifestyle an unspoken testimony of God's grace?
Do I keep my relationships above reproach?
Am I picking and choosing what to obey in God's Word?
Is my speech absolute truth or half-truths?
Are there any secret sins in my life?

God's most effective witnesses are those who are not only saved and sealed, but also walking in the light-set apart for God and willingly available to be sent as lights into a dark and corrupt world. (Swindoll)

LET IT GROW

John saw Jesus as the sickle-wielding Judge of the earth who treads the wine press of God's wrath. Swindoll gives us two principles from this:

1. God's grace gives us the freedom to choose righteousness. Christ's death has set us free from slavery to sin (Rom. 6:5-7). The Holy Spirit gives us the ability to choose righteousness instead of wickedness (Phil. 2:12-13). We are to use this freedom in the service of God, not our self.
2. God's justice holds every person accountable. We who are "in Christ Jesus" are free from the condemnation (Rom 14:10) and wrath of God (1Thess. 5:9). Romans 14:10 tells us that "we will all stand before the judgment seat of God."

A day of divine examination is coming. Are we ready?

Revelation 2:23 says, I am he who searches the minds and hearts; and I will give to each one of you according to your deeds.

Are we using our freedom in Christ to live a life free from sin's domination?

LET IT GO

Review the questions above so I am ready for the divine examination.

Let go of sin and surrender to Christ.

Imitating

691."Imitating"
February 13, 2013
Revelation 13-Part 15
This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the parts of the saints.
Revelation 13:10b NIV

LET IT GLOW

Last Sunday in children's church, two boys were aggravating a girl by imitating her. They kept repeating what she said, which didn't set well with her. Finally, I had to put a stop to it. You know what, that's the way it is with Satan. He is an imitator of God-to such things eventually God will put a stop.

Friends, I keep reading this chapter and nothing changes. I keep hoping it will, but it doesn't, anyway in this chapter. but don't let it depress you. God is in charge and has a plan and He's working that plan.
After reading several commentators, here are my conclusions:

Skip down to verses 8-10. If a person's name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life, then they are a child of God. They believe that Jesus died to purchase their salvation, they were chosen by God before the foundation of the world, has their redemption sealed forever, and is fulfilling an eternal plan.
(MacArthur)
Therefore, they are called to suffer and die for Christ. Verse 10b, NIV, says, This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints.  

Also, they don't take the mark of the beast, even if it means no food, medicines, buying or selling for them and their family (verse 16). Verse 18 says, This calls for wisdom. To me, this would be the hardest thing to endure-seeing loved ones suffer. Faith is Jesus will be tested to the max, just as the children of Israel had to trust Jesus while walking 40 years in the wilderness.
If God could and did provide food, water, and clothes and shoes for the Israelites then, can He do it now, or in the future? All things we have are actually a gift from God anyway, right?

We must continue to contend with the various means of spiritual deception aggressively at work in our present age. Each of us must, therefore, equip ourselves for spiritual battle with reliable knowledge, keen discernment, and God-given wisdom. Are you equipped with those three essentials to face the challenges of your relentless and ruthless attacks? Our first responsibility is to be alert and engaged in resisting our Adversary today. (Swindoll)


LET IT GROW

As I said earlier, Satan is an imitator of God. He wants so badly to be worshiped, that he will go to any extreme to get it. He imitates the Holy Trinity-God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, with his unholy three-Satan, the Antichrist (beast of the earth), and the False Prophet.

In chapter 13, John describes a world empire that opposes God and His people, which has occurred through history. The Antichrist will be directly empowered by Satan himself, acting as the ultimate dictator and leading the mother of all evil empires. This worldly copycat "christ" will strive to match all man-centered ideals of personality, politics, and power.
Keep in mind, this is happening during the last 42 months of the Tribulation.
 Just so we will be informed, here's what's going to take place.
The Antichrist or first beast:

• will blaspheme God, slander His name, dwelling place, and those who live in heaven. (verse 6)
• have a fatal wound that will be healed.
• will be given power to make war against the saints and conquer them. (verse 7)
• will be given authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation. (verse 7b)
• All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast-those whose names aren't written in the Book of Life. (verse 8)

The second beast, False Prophet:

• will make everyone worship the first beast. (verse 12)
• performs great and miraculous signs, even fire from heaven. (verse 13)
• will be given power to deceive the inhabitants of the earth. (verse 14a)
• sets up an image, idol, in honor of the Antichrist, first beast, gives it power to speak.
• kills all people who refuse to worship the idol. (verse 15b)
• requires the mark of the beast, 666, to be on people's right hand or forehead. (verse 17) Satan marks his people.

Oh, my, what a terrible time to live on earth. I am so thankful that I will not be here to experience this. I believe that believers in Christ, the church, and the Holy Spirit, will be out of here and live in heaven during the Tribulation.
Am I willing to pay whatever the price to be faithful to my Savior?
Am I willing to die instead of taking the mark of the beast?

LET IT GO

Be ready to go to heaven in a blink of an eye.

Examine my commitment to Christ.

Surrender unconditionally my all to Him.

Remove any idols in my life.

Characters

690. "Characters"
February 12, 2013
Revelation 12-Part 14
And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. Revelation 12:11

LET IT GLOW

When I used to read novels, I would write the characters' names on the back page or the cover page. Usually I would identify and describe  them. This was so I could keep up with who was whom. It might be helpful to do such a thing again concerning chapter 12. I found that this was already done for me, which is a big help.

Charles Swindoll, in his book Swindoll's New Testament Insights on Revelation identifies the characters as:

Woman-the righteous remnant of Israel,
Dragon and his armies-Satan and his demons working through the wicked world powers,
Male child-Christ the King of kings and Lord of lords,
Michael and his armies-archangel Michael and elect angels,
Offspring-the tribulation saints.
 

It's good to know who you are up against. I have heard that saying before. If you know about your enemies and how they operate, then you can prepare yourself and your strategy of attack or defence.

Well, friends, I'm here to let you know, our enemy is Satan and his demons. (Probably this is not news to you.)

The Bible calls Satan "the accuser of our brothers," in Revelation 12:10. It's the Devil's job to blame, complain, and criticize members of God's family. anytime we do the same, we're being duped into doing Satan's work for him. Remember, other Christians, no matter how much you disagree with them, are not the real enemy. Any time we spend comparing or criticizing other believers is time that should have been spent building the unity of our fellowship. (The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren)

What can we do to help that person? Perhaps I need to ask the one criticizing another. I should ask myself that question. Perhaps I should walk away and not listen nor participate in that conversation. Paul tells us in Romans 14:19: Let's agree to use all our energy in getting along with each other. Help others with encouraging words; don't drag them down by finding fault.

Yes, indeed, I have something to world on today.

LET IT GROW

Swindoll gives us some practical points to use in our everyday lives:

1. Israel may be blind and disobedient as a nation, but God has never forgotten her. The same God who stands by His promises to Israel stands by His promise to each of us: I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you. (Heb. 13:5)
2. Although Satan is a powerful and aggressive foe, he will not triumph. Satan accuses us before God every day and night, while at the same time Jesus Christ, our advocate, ceaselessly intercedes for us (Heb. 7:25).
3. We may be open and assaulted targets today, but we need not fear. Satan still operates under the restraining hand of God. When we draw near to God, He will protect us from any attack Satan can unleash against us. James 4:7 says, Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

Revelation 12:11 states, And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

Am I like the remnant which keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ? (verse 17)

Here are some verses to remind us of the victory we can enjoy as a member of the Body of Christ:

• Luke 22:31-32
• Ephesians 6:12-13
• 2 Timothy 1:7
• 1 Peter 5:8-10
• James 4:7-8
• 1 John 4:4

LET IT GO

Be an encourager, not an accuser.

Stop fault finding-love.

Beware of the lieing devil.

Resist and rebuke the devil so he flees.

Trust Jesus, the Almighty God.