SCRIPTURE: Revelation 10:1-11
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
We have seen 7 seals opened, and we are now in the seven trumpets. The seventh trumpet represents the final judgment (as did the seventh seal), but the actual “sound” of that judgment, described as seven thunders, is sealed up until the end (this is related to the silence of the seventh seal). What John saw in regards to the final judgment is hidden. But John is not to remain silent until the judgment, he is commissioned as a witness (as are all Christ-followers) in this age to declare the coming judgment (10:9-11). Eating the scroll is a reference to the prophetic calling of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 3:1-4).
The message of God is good news (sweet as honey) to those who believe it, yet will be sour for those who reject it. No one wants to hear about impending judgment. This is why many prophets struggled (see Jeremiah 15:16-17), and why we as Christians have a hard time conveying the message of God’s judgment.
Not sure what the mighty angel represents, other than confirming again that Satan and his demons do not have the upper hand here. The Lord rules over all heaven and earth, and His mighty angels rule with Him. This is the context of our mission. True, we are like lambs among wolves (Matthew 10:16), but when we stand with the Lamb that is a Lion (Revelation 5:5-6), then we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:35-39).
May we never lose sight of the fact that we are missionaries (ambassadors, see 2 Corinthians 5:20) of the King of kings, and that His mighty angels have everything under control. We do not need to hide or cower in fear, we have the full backing of the Master of the Universe, empowered by His Spirit.
PRAYER:
Lord, forgive me for thinking that I am weak, that the powers of this world are stronger than me. Help me to regain a sense of humble boldness, aware that You are standing with me, backing me up with Your authority and power. Amen.
This angel came with a rainbow above his head and an open scroll. The rainbow reminds me of the promises of God and the open scroll – the open book of life since all my deeds are open and known to the Lord. The angel also stood over the land and the sea showing his dominion over the creation.
John was told to take the scroll and to eat it. Man is an active participant with God in this His world. We are His servants, stewards doing His will on earth. And like John, it must be all of me. I need to devour the scroll(book) so that it becomes part of my whole being. Then I will be able to do His bidding. As with previous prophets, when they proclaim the word of the Lord, it certainly wasn’t sweet to their ears, but doom and gloom – God’s judgement.
Once again I am reminded that my life is in Him. He is my All in All. Help me Lord to Live for You this day. I am weak, but in You I am strong. Help me to stand up for Jesus so others may see You in me if they but have the eyes that see. May I be a living letter and live in such a way that I too can say to those around my – imitate my example.
Living for Jesus a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.
Living for Jesus wherever I am,
Doing each duty in His holy Name;
Willing to suffer affliction and loss,
Deeming each trial a part of my cross.