Revelation

February 12th – Revelation 2:4-5

Revelation 2:4-5

As Valentine’s Day approaches, love is in the air. And as we celebrate those we cherish, we mustn’t forget our first and greatest love of all, Jesus. The church at Ephesus had lost their passion and devotion for the Lord. And so He called them to reignite the flame that once burned brightly in their hearts. Jesus’ words are an invitation for us all to realign our priorities and renew our commitment to Him. It’s a call to reflect on our spiritual journey and examine whether our love for God has been put on the back burner from the distractions and busyness of life. Returning to our first love requires intentional effort and a desire to prioritize our relationship with Jesus above all else. As we heed His call to repentance and restoration, we open our hearts to experience a revitalized intimacy with our Savior. So as Valentine’s Day encourages us to express love and affection towards others, may it also be an opportunity to rekindle our love for God and renewing our commitment to Him.

February 12th – Revelation 2:4-5 Read More »

November 30th – 1 Peter 2:20

1 Peter 2:20

When bad things happen as a result of something we did, we understand the consequences that follow. But sometimes bad things happen when we’ve done everything right. And in those times instead of asking why, we need to accept that although not every challenge is earned, every challenge is an opportunity for spiritual growth. This calls for a unique form of endurance. One that perseveres in hope, even amid undeserved suffering. When we embrace hope in these moments, it becomes an act of profound trust. One that acknowledges God’s plan may transcend our immediate understanding. And that enduring with faith can lead to a deeper connection with His divine purpose. It’s an invitation to walk in the footsteps of Christ, who Himself endured unjust suffering. To find solace in the enduring hope that the Lord recognizes and honors such steadfast perseverance. And one He will wipe away every tear we cry, (Rev. 21:4), and replace our sorrow with everlasting joy!

November 30th – 1 Peter 2:20 Read More »

October 17th – Revelation 14:14-16

Revelation 14:14-16

As winter will soon be upon us, farmers are busing gathering up the last of the fall harvest. The tractors dig deep into the soil, gleaning the fields, not wanting anything of value to be left behind. So it is with God. Very soon Jesus will return to glean God’s harvest. Wielding a sharp sickle, the Son of Man will reap every last one of God’s children. Like the harvest of wheat and the gathering of grapes, this final gathering will be to separate the righteous from the unrighteous. And the goats from the sheep. The return of Jesus signifies the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan. A plan where He will gather His faithful followers and execute His divine justice. It serves as a powerful reminder of the promise of Christ’s return and the forthcoming culmination of history. The signs of the times tell us that soon the day of reckoning and reward for the faithful will come. Are you ready for the great harvest? Will you be gleaned by Jesus? Don’t wait to accept His gift of grace and salvation.

October 17th – Revelation 14:14-16 Read More »

October 8th – Revelation 22:1-5

Revelation 22:1-5

Deep in the heart of believers is the longing to one day be a citizen of the heavenly city of Jerusalem. To forever dwell with the Lord where God’s presence reigns in all its glory. It is a place of everlasting peace, joy, and perfect communion with the Divine. Where our faith will be fully realized, our tears wiped away, and our hearts forever united with our Creator. A beautiful home beyond imagining where the river of the water of life flows from the throne of God. And the tree of life bears fruit every month, offering nourishment and healing to the nations. This heavenly Jerusalem gives us a hope that sustains us, guiding our earthly journey as we strive to live in accordance with God’s will. Jesus is coming soon to reap His harvest and establish His kingdom. But until that day, we are called to readiness, anticipation, and living in a way that honors His return. While also rejoicing in the eternal abundance that awaits His faithful followers.

October 8th – Revelation 22:1-5 Read More »

May 15th – Revelation21:5

Revelation 21:5

Some Christians shy away from the book of Revelation. They find the vivid imagery and symbolic language confusing, fictional, or too violent. But make no mistake. God calls us to read and take to heart the words the book contains. (Rev. 1:3) Because the Lord Himself promises that every one is trustworthy and true. And far from just containing doom and gloom, Revelation reveals the wonderful plans of God. Plans to renew and restore all of creation. To transform the world to its original perfection, including us. For in our new God given glorified bodies, we will dwell on the new earth in the new city of Jerusalem. One day soon the Lord will return. God’s promises will be fulfilled. Death and evil will be conquered forever. And as followers of Jesus, we get the great honor of ruling and reigning by His side forever as part of God’s perfect new creation.

May 15th – Revelation21:5 Read More »

April 21st – Revelation 16:9

Revelation 16:9

Throughout the book of revelation you see a people with a hardened heart against God. And for the life me, I couldn’t understand why they would choose suffering over joy, death over eternal life, and judgement over blessing. But the more I reflected the more I realized that I have had an unrepentant heart wanting its own will done instead of God’s. I too have turned my back on Him, choosing instead to continue to walk in sin. And I have cried out against the Lord when I haven’t gotten my own way. So I can honestly tell you the path of rebellion which takes you away from God leads to nothing but despair, loneliness, sorrow, and regret. Yet when you choose to walk in faith and obedience to His will, God will bless you beyond imagining, take you places your heart couldn’t dare hope for, and protect you from the wrath to come.

April 21st – Revelation 16:9 Read More »

March 16th – 1 Thessalonians 5:9

1 Thessalonians 5:9

The world is a scary place. And it grows scarier by the day. But for Christians no matter the chaos, we needn’t fear. Because we know God is in control. And as Jan Markell says, “The world isn’t falling to pieces, the pieces are falling into place.” War is coming. And God will not contain His judgements forever. For as He Himself warns, “Behold I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who stays awake and keeps his clothes, so that he will not walk about naked and men will not see his shame.” (Rev.16:15) But believers have the blessing of knowing that God’s plan isn’t for us to suffer the coming wrath. But rather to be saved through faith in Jesus Christ. So no matter how dark the world grows, we can hold fast to God and stay strong. Because God’s glorious plan for our lives is one of salvation and redemption. Not one of death and destruction.

 

March 16th – 1 Thessalonians 5:9 Read More »

February 9th – Revelation 16:15

Revelation 16:15

Only God has the ability to directly see what is truly in a person’s heart. (1 Samuel 16:7) For the rest of us, we can only judge others by what we see on the outside. So if we boldly claim to be Christians, our daily walk needs to mimic the walk of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We can’t have a bumper sticker on our car or wear a cross around our necks then act like the world. John tells us that we each have a spiritual set of clothes. Paid for by the blood of Jesus. And as His ambassadors on earth, we need to wear our outfits proudly. That means always being aware of our actions and behaviors. John warns that the glorious return of Christ is soon upon us. And when He comes, we don’t want to get caught wearing soiled, dirty, worldly clothes. But instead we want to be seen wearing the garments of love, grace, and mercy Jesus paid a ransom to provide.

February 9th – Revelation 16:15 Read More »

December 30th – Revelation 21:1

Revelation 21:1 

In the last chapters of Revelation, John reveals what is known as the “eternal state”, or the eternal destiny of believers. And the picture he paints is one of such peace, joy, and love, that I too can’t help but cry, “Maranatha!” Come Lord Jesus! John tells us the world we know, with all of its filth and pollution, is burned away by God. He creates a new heaven and a new earth, “in which righteousness dwells.” This new earth will be restored to the beauty and perfection that God originally created before the fall of man. And on this new earth, we will spend eternity with the Lord. Upon this new earth, we will live in the glorious city of the new Jerusalem. It will be a city with a foundation of precious stones, gates of giant pearls, and streets of pure gold. A city where the spectacular Shekinah glory of God will be illuminating every inch! There, where God establishes His throne, we will be with the Father and the Son forever, serving and glorifying Him in all we do!

December 30th – Revelation 21:1 Read More »

November 17th – Revelation 14:6

Revelation14:6

I am thankful Thant God gives everyone an opportunity to receive the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ 

One of the most loving things God does is not give up on us. For He is the God of second, third, and fourth chances. So much so, He gives us ample opportunity to hear and receive the saving gospel of Jesus Christ. You’d think after the rapture, when believers are taken from the earth, God would say, “That’s it. You had a chance. Now suffer the consequences.” But our Heavenly Father wishes for none to perish. And so even during the tribulation, God sends an angel to proclaim the Good News. Everyone on the earth will hear the only message that provides eternal life. Because of His great love, God gives every person one last opportunity to choose life over death. To turn to the Lord and experience a peace, joy, and perfect love for eternity. Afterwards, there will be no more excuses other than a hardened heart. But sadly, because they love sin more than God, some will still reject the gospel, choosing death and destruction.

November 17th – Revelation 14:6 Read More »