In the imagery of this chapter we see the dragon exercising his power on the earth through the first and second beast. It is as if the dragon is the power but the beasts are the front men, the face of the dragon’s empire. The world is duped except those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life (8). And the beasts will wage war against God’s holy people (7).
In the midst of all these images comes a word to God’s people. This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of God’s people (10b).
Patient endurance… since we are living in the time of the dragon & the beast (whoever they are and however they are manifesting at this time). Following Jesus will take patient endurance. People will be deceived, people will persecuted, people will not believe us and will stand opposed to us. God says, “Endure what comes our way because of our faith. Keep living for the Lamb. Keep bearing His name and standing for what He stands for… endure, persevere, hang in there and hang on no matter how bumpy and hard the faith journey becomes!”
Faithfulness… stay true to the Lamb and His wWord. Let the Lamb’s character become your character. Grow into the character of Jesus. Cultivate the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 6) in your life.
Patient endurance and faithfulness… two words to guide my living today!
Thank You, Lord, for these straightforward words. Never easy, but that is likely why you gave me and Your church this reminder.
Lord, help me to rely on the Spirit, Your Spirit within me, to live for You and as I do, let my life make a difference for You and Your kingdom. I pray this is Jesus’ name. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment