Read: Revelation 4:1-5:4
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come! (v. 8)
John saw the churches suffer under the emperor Domitian—the throne of Rome. Now John sees the throne of heaven. Thunder rumbles! Lights flash! He refers to God with great restraint. His holiness and power are awesome. This is the center of the cosmos—of all the galaxies. Rome is nothing!
Seven torches represent the Holy Spirit. Four six-winged cherubim surround the throne and the crystal sea. Around them is a full-circle rainbow. Then, a circle of crowned, white-robed “elders” on thrones. They represent God’s people throughout history. The cherubim sing, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty!” The elders lay their crowns before the throne, and sing, “Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created” (v. 11). Our worship of God puts our personal concerns and the daily news into perspective. It reminds us that he is in control.
God could destroy Satan with a word! So why does he allow evil? Why let frail old John be banished? God holds a scroll, with seven seals—a book of destiny with all the answers! But no one can be found worthy to open it. John weeps profusely! (5:4). It is so hard to live with the uncertainties and troubles of this world, but this passage reminds us that we just aren’t able to understand all of God’s plans. —Ruth Siemens
As you pray, ask God to help you love and trust him.
About the Author
Ruth Siemens was a campus minister with IVCF/IFES, then started Global Opportunities to prepare professionals to work and witness in secular employment abroad.
