Thoughts in Worship

Message Magazine's Online Devotional for Thursday, October 15, 2015

Today’s Scripture:

“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” (Revelation 14:12).

Introduction:

If you have been following our devotional thoughts since the end of August, you will note that we have been going through the book of Revelation. You will also note that there are messages from two angels we have yet to unpack. We will. They tie directly into the messages of chapters 13, 16, 17, and 18, so we absolutely must learn what the Lord is saying here. Don’t you worry, we will come back to the second and third angels’ messages.

Today’s Observation:

As we have said in many different ways, the Ten Commandment Law of God is foundational to His government. We have also said in the past that the tables of stone on which God emblazoned the commandments were hewn directly from the sapphire (blue) stone of the actual Throne of God. The second set of tables, which God gave Moses following his shattering of the first, were subsequently placed in the Ark of the Covenant beneath the mercy seat. The fact that God relates His Law to the eternal throne must not be lost on us. Any power or person who attempts to change, abrogate, or teach that the Ten Commandments is done away with is either deceived or a liar. Without holy Law, there must follow unholy spiritual anarchy.

By the time the context of our theme text comes into play on the prophetic horizon, the people of God have been buffeted, worn out, and persecuted. A remnant of this buffeted group of precious saints has emerged. And they too are buffeted, worn out, and persecuted. They love the Lord, hate sin and the enemy’s lies, and they are targeted by his attacks. But you may recall Scripture from one of our past devotionals, which says: “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” (Revelation 3:10–11). Our loving God has promised to protect us during our greatest trials, including the attacks we will face from those who blasphemously set up against God’s holy Law and Sabbath during the last days.

Conclusion:

While the world (those who are not submitted to God) all wonder after the mysterious beast, its image, etc., and receive its mark, those who choose remain in close fellowship with God by faith will be protected, sealed, and finally rewarded. We need only to accept His Spirit, righteousness, and perseverance come what may, and we will receive our crowns of life.

A Prayer for Your Hearts:

Lord, please help us to give our lives to you continually. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.--L. David Harris (www.davidwritesalot.com)