Read: Revelation 10:1-11:6
Then he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts. (Zech. 4:6)
A great angel appears and roars out, “There will be no more delay!” (10:6 NIV). God is accomplishing his purposes. The angel plants one leg in the sea and one on land, showing God’s supremacy over all the earth. Then John is given a tiny scroll. The tiny bittersweet scroll prepares John to prophesy some happy visions, and some that are exceedingly bitter.
In Revelation 2 seven lampstands meant all churches. Now John sees two lampstands. They represent the church on trial. The big question: Is the church strong enough to win this hostile war? The churches then and now are composed of learners. How can they win? Why olive trees? Torch-lamps need olive oil. Two trees symbolize an endless supply of the Spirit (Zech. 4), our unfailing resource.
We worship, he fills us with power. His Presence in us is greater than he who is in the world. God’s Word is like fire in our mouths (Jer. 23:29)! We foil Satan and win seekers. When Elijah prayed, rain stopped! When Moses prayed, plagues came!
The 1260 days (11:3) symbolize a long but limited period. God has a timetable for his enemies, for churches, for John, for you and me. He is in control! —Ruth Siemens
As you pray, ask God to keep filling you with his Spirit as you serve 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.
