Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation

[Azriel]

The Best Advice

I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear.
REVELATION 3:18

The advice of well-meaning people is not always best. They advise us when to buy or sell, give or lend, spend or save. In the case of a relationship, they suggest when we should give it a second chance or when we should break it off. When we consider changing jobs, they opine about whether we should stay with a job or change. Sincere counsel that sounds right may not be the best advice. Only Christ gives counsel that is accurate 100 percent of the time.

In Revelation, Jesus’s very insightful counsel exposes the church’s inability to see its unhealthy condition. His remedy is the application of His Spirit’s salve to reveal their need for righteousness. Those who recognize their needy state are in a position to receive counsel, but those stuck in denial live perpetually in pain. Eventually severe dysfunction drives people and organizations to recognize their sickly condition, but the longer the delay, the harder it is to fully recover. Only spiritual health can truly satisfy!

“So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?” (Luke 16:11).

Wealth of heart is what our heavenly Father desires most for us. Abundance is the asset our generous God offers to His children—abundance of joy, relationships, and all we need to live a fulfilling life. Yet the riches of Christ are not without cost. As our faith is tried by the fires of adversity and success, we must remain faithful. To remain faithful we must heed the best advice, which comes from our Creator’s wisdom.

Are you open to advice? Have you truly humbled yourself to admit you are in need of help from God and others? The closer a person is to an issue, the harder it is for them to see the best solution. Faith takes a step back and invites in a third party to help parse the problem. The best counsel comes from Christ. What does He think about your situation? How does Jesus want to love you amid your pain? Listen to the Lord. Look around to see Him at work and receive His best advice.

“First seek the counsel of the LORD” (1 Kings 22:5).
Who has experience and wisdom to offer me? To whom may I turn for wise counsel?

Related Readings
Job 12:13; Psalms 16:7; 32:8; 119:24; Proverbs 16:1-9; Romans 11:33-35


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Love Initiates Intimacy

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.
REVELATION 3:20

Years ago, my friend Gale called with a passion to pray for me. How refreshing! As a vocational minister of the gospel, I was normally the one offering prayers, but not this time. For a full year Gale called me every Friday. He asked for an update on my prior week’s prayer and any new needs I had, and then he led us in prayer together. Wow, this man loved me in the most intimate, helpful way! I gained inner strength by his love, and his prayers initiated intimacy.
Jesus vividly paints the picture of Himself standing at the door. The Lord is the gentle guest waiting outside, ready to come in and engage the occupant. He is generous company, and He receives and gives hospitality. His holy presence offers prayers on behalf of all those in need of His grace. His sacrificial life, death, and resurrection introduce the gift of salvation to everyone who invites Him in and trusts Him wholeheartedly. Jesus initiates intimacy with those who need Him as Savior and with those who desire a relationship with Him as friend.



“It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes… He will dress himself to serve… and will come and wait on them” (Luke 12:37).

Have you received the loving intimacy initiated by the Lord Jesus Christ? Have you received Him into your life as your personal Savior? If not, simply pray, “Jesus, I trust You for the forgiveness of my sins. I believe You died on the cross and rose from the grave. You are my God.” Perhaps Jesus is already in your life, but you need a fresh infusion of His intimate love. Just as opening the shutters invites in warmth, so opening one’s heart to Christ’s love invites in warm intimacy.

Who needs to share intimacy with you? A spouse, child, parent, sibling, or friend? You can’t control their response, but you can initiate unhurried time together. Make it easier to meet by planning ahead for both of you. Budget time and money. Intimacy is not easily achieved, but the fruits of trust, joy, and knowledge are worth the effort. Love initiates intimacy!

“God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them” (1 John 4:16).
Who needs my persistent love, so we can really grow to know each other deeply?

Related Readings
Proverbs 8:17; Zephaniah 3:17; Romans 8:10; James 5:9; 1 John 4:8-9


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Fight the Good Fight

To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne.
REVELATION 3:21

Soldiers are my heroes—those who fight for freedom and ensure domestic tranquility. Some are newly enlisted on their way to boot camp, a few are enrolled in officer training, and others provide technical support or manage administrative details. Then there are the fighters on the battlefront—daily putting their lives on the line. Some live and some die, but all sacrifice. War is ugly, messy, and hellish in its fierce engagements, but battles can be won with unity and God’s favor.

John describes a scene in heaven where the final battle has been fought, weapons cease to exist, weary bodies are in repose, minds are not churning with activity, and emotions are at ease. Because Jesus fought the good fight while He lived on earth, He now reigns with His Father in heaven. Christ overcame the devil’s temptations so that we might overcome as well. He conquered evil with good so we can conquer too. He endured suffering that we might endure with Him. Jesus lived, died, and came to life—so we can live, die, and come to life!

“Fight the good fight of the faith” (1 Timothy 6:12).

Do you have a relationship battlefront to reengage? You may need to fight for your marriage, a child, a parent, or a friend. Relational passivity is not an option because love initiates. Learn to fight fair for the one you love—but fight! Quiet resentment is as bad or worse than screeching demands. Do not shock others like an emotional stealth bomber, or blow them away with a verbal machine gun. Instead, fight for their affection by serving and loving them in ways that make them feel valued. You fight a good fight when you assume the best and forgive.
How do you know if you are engaged in fighting the good fight with God? Prayer is the weapon your enemy fears the most. Prayer can go places you may be unable to go: school, political arenas, business trips, mission fields, hospitals, retirement homes, and hearts. Prayer aligns your heart with the Lord’s heart of love and humility. Love gives strength from above, and humility gives unlimited access to His grace. Fight with God’s weapons, not with the world’s defeated arsenal. With Jesus, you reign!

“The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still” (Exodus 14:14).
Whom do I need to love right where they are and trust God to lead them where they need to be?

Related Readings
Numbers 32:27; 1 Samuel 25:28; John 18:36; Acts 5:39; 2 Timothy 4:7


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible® through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Listen for God’s Voice

The voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.”
REVELATION 4:1

God’s voice has not vanished. He has not lost His voice because of overuse. His vocal cords are not strained but strong. God does not cough or become congested. His voice is clear and intelligible. His voice is all around us; listen and be in awe. Thunder and lightning display His glory in the heavens. We hear His thunder and gaze up in both fear and amazement. His voice reminds us of His glory. The Lord’s majestic presence thunders from above.

John wrote earlier about Jesus standing at the door, waiting to be invited in. Now the Lord opens the door to heaven and invites John to come in and experience Him. The voice of God sounds like a trumpet, similar to the sound of a trumpet announcing the resurrection of the dead in Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:16). The Lord is drawing John closer to His throne of grace and worship, so He might reveal to His humble servant His vision of things to come. Worship and grace escort us into the presence of our heavenly Father, who is ready to show us His ways.

“God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding” (Job 37:5).

God’s voice can be powerful when applied in our lives. He can be stern in discipline or tender in grace. The powerful voice of Jesus called Lazarus back from the dead, and on the cross He interceded to His heavenly Father for forgiveness on behalf of His enemies. Use your voice to pray for people who are dead in their sin and in need of a Savior. Lift up your voice on behalf of others who have offended or hurt you. God hears your voice.

God’s voice is majestic and regal. He is enthroned above all His creation. Jesus is our King of kings and Lord of lords. When He speaks, we listen. His words matter most. The Bible is the wisdom of His words in written form. His voice speaks through the pages of Scripture, so pay attention to what He tells you and obediently apply it to your life. Tell others what Christ tells you. Those of us who hear the voice of God cannot keep quiet, so be a clean conduit for His voice to speak.

“The LORD confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them” (Psalm 25:14).
What is the Spirit saying to my soul? How can I distinguish God’s voice from competing voices?

Related Readings
Psalm 18:13; Jeremiah 6:10; Philippians 1:14; 1 Thessalonians 4:16


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible® through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Holy, Holy, Holy

Day and night they never stop saying “ ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty,’ who was, and is, and is to come.”
REVELATION 4:8

The holiness of our heavenly Father cannot be completely comprehended by the human mind. His purity burns so brightly, the dross of our sinful deeds melts in the presence of His pure character. Just as Moses took cover in the cleft of the rock as God passed by, so we take shelter in the refuge of our Savior Jesus to be able to handle the glory of our great God. His name is above all names—not to be spoken in vain, but evoked in humble adoration.

John describes a 24/7 majestic worship experience. Similar to Isaiah’s famous vision of reverent angelic beings adoring God (Isaiah 6:1-5), each person of the Trinity is praised as absolutely holy and worthy of all glory and honor. The Lord God Almighty who was, and is, and is to come is 100 percent perfection in His pure love and affection! We seek Him alone in worship, for no other is worthy of our radical devotion. Our worship resonates forever.

“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory” (Isaiah 6:3).

Our heavenly Father’s holiness is the standard of sinless perfection. Though we will never achieve perfection in this life, His Holy Spirit continues to perfect our faith and character to make us more like Christ. As children of the Holy One, we are set apart to be holy as He is holy. However, be careful not to fall into the “holier than thou” trap. Sin is never comfortable in the presence of purity. We are only channels for the Spirit to convict the hearts of those we love on behalf of Jesus. We pray for His holiness to shine through us.

We are friends with Jesus and we partner with the Holy Spirit, but we are submissive children of our Father, the Most High—our great and glorious God. We bow now in individual preparation for the day after our death, when we will pray with all in glorious acclamation. Can you see His holy aura in your reverent worship of your heavenly Father? Esteem His holy name!

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Philippians 2:10-11).
What songs of praise cause me to lift my heart in adoration of God’s holiness?

Related Readings
Isaiah 52:13; Daniel 7:14; Acts 2:33; 1 Peter 1:15-16


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Heartfelt Worship

The twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne and worship him who lives for ever and ever.
REVELATION 4:10

I could see love in their faces. Some leathery and wrinkled from the toils and trials of life, others youthful, smooth cheeked, and white toothed—all beaming with the joy of Jesus. My fifth trip in ten years to India felt like my first. Why? I’m not sure, but something about the heart of the people refreshed me: pure and full of faith. Their Hindi prayers and praise escorted my soul into the presence of our Savior. The Holy Spirit, like a knife through hot butter, cut to the depths of my being. I wept in the presence of great lovers of God.

In this verse, the 24 elders represent the church and all believers who lift their heartfelt worship to the Lord God Almighty. All followers of Jesus will be rewarded at the judgment seat of God (Romans 14:10). As the righteous cast crowns before the throne of God, they are only offering back what is rightfully God’s in humble adoration and honor. Heartfelt worship keeps the glory of God at the center of attention—not the works of man.

“My heart rejoices in the LORD; in the LORD my horn is lifted high… There is no one holy like the LORD” (1 Samuel 2:1-2).

Magnify the Lord in worship; rejoice and praise His holy name in song. God has done extraordinary things for you, in you, and through you. He created you in His image, and He saved you to grow into the image of His Son Jesus. As you fear and adore Him, He pours out His abundant grace and mercy on you. Your praise models gratitude to God, empowering the next generation to rejoice mightily in Jesus Christ!

Like the mighty Mississippi River, thankfulness overflows the soul that sings out to its Savior. As we adore the Lord for His loving presence, He awards us with security. We worship the Holy One in the rarified air of His righteousness, while His Spirit bestows holiness into our hearts. Our heartfelt praise guarantees engagement with God. The Holy Spirit’s influence is without borders. Like John, we are instruments of Christ’s work in and through us.


“I will perpetuate your memory through all generations; therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever” (Psalm 45:17).
Who in the next generation needs me to model adoration of God?

Related Readings
Psalm 78:4; Isaiah 61:10; 1 Timothy 4:10; 1 Peter 2:10-12


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Intelligent Design


You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.
REVELATION 4:10-11

God is the intelligence behind the design of creation and life. He is the architect of the universe and the engineer of eternal life. He is the wisdom behind the world. The soft, pinkish-blue sunset, He designed. The brilliant, bold, and bright sunrise cascading over the treetops, He designed. The pure snowcapped mountains projecting toward heaven in reverence, He designed. The gorgeous and luscious green vegetation, He designed.

The deep-blue seas and the baby-blue sky, He designed. The furry and ferocious animals, He designed. The multicolored bugs and beetles, He designed. The chirping sparrows, the clacking seagulls, and the hovering hummingbirds, He designed. Fish, shrimp, whales, and penguins, He designed. Most fascinating, the intricate design of water and flesh called the human body, He designed.

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1).

He is the intelligent designer of earth and mankind. It takes more arrogance than faith to believe otherwise. He gave us intelligence to recognize that He is the intelligent designer. If we cannot accept that God is behind the design, then we are not being intellectually honest. The evidence is overwhelming. Its affirmation quietly rests within our hearts. Its confirmation floods our minds, and its declaration explodes from our mouths.

Anything good that has been accomplished by God through you will be laid at the feet of Jesus. Your crown of rewards will not be proudly worn on your head; rather, it will be placed before the throne of God. Heaven is all about Him. Just like Christmas is all about Christ, our time on earth is all about our preparation for Him in heaven.

Worshipping Him on earth is but an appetizing morsel of what we will have to feast on in glory. His design of you and creation is not only intelligent; it is also good. Therefore, worship Him now in preparation of worshipping Him later. All praise, honor, power, and glory go to God! He desires it, and He deserves it. His intelligent design reflects His majesty.


“Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24).
Do I have an intelligent understanding of God’s intelligent design? How can I grow my understanding of my Creator so I can creatively communicate it to His creation?

Related Readings
Psalms 22:27-31; 36:6-7; Romans 1:18-23; 2 Peter 3:8


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Scripture’s Timeless Truth

Then I saw in the right hand of him who sat on the throne a scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals. And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?”
REVELATION 5:1-2

We are blessed when we seek counsel from the wise, but when we receive direction from Almighty God in His Word, we can rest assured. The Bible is the baseline for our beliefs and behavior—the first and the final say for faith-based living. A day without scriptural intake is like missing three meals. God’s Word nourishes the soul, is a trailblazer for truth, and leads us into His very best for our lives.

As He sits enthroned, He holds the scroll of Scripture in His right hand—His Word in general and this Revelation prophecy in particular. The Lord’s precious words are sealed seven times and are kept in safekeeping, awaiting the worthy Lamb of God to open them. The counsel of God will be revealed and the mystery of His love and judgment clarified by Christ. Even today the Holy Spirit is our guide into all truth so that we may confidently follow Jesus.

“Consult God’s instruction and the testimony of warning. If anyone does not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn” (Isaiah 8:20).

You endure as you learn and apply the enduring Word of the Lord to your life. Have you encountered a roadblock in parenting? If so, Scripture has insight into seeing exactly how to love your child at their point of need. Are you experiencing an unreasonable individual at work or in your family? The Bible gives instructions on how to unselfishly serve those who are full of themselves. Come to Christ and listen to His voice as He speaks to you through His Word.

A word from the Lord gives hope in the face of discouragement, wisdom for understanding, and courage to confront injustice. Scriptures planted in the human heart are seeds of faith for the soul. If you hide the life-giving Word of God in a humbled heart, you will be able to give life to others. What does God think? This is the first question for followers of Jesus Christ; and fortunately for His children, His Holy Spirit brings to life the pages of His Word in prayer. Study to know the truth and listen to apply it. Scripture gives stamina to your faith.

“He replied, ‘My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice’ ” (Luke 8:21).
What area of my life needs instruction and encouragement from God’s Word?

Related Readings
Genesis 15:1; 1 Samuel 3:1-7; 2 Timothy 2:9; Hebrews 1:3


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

How to Deal with Disappointment

I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside.
REVELATION 5:4

Everyone deals with disappointment—some more than others. These letdowns vary in scope: another year of no raises at work, a friend’s forgetfulness, a lost opportunity, a teenager’s poor choices, a missed deadline, a relative’s financial woes, a boss’s oversight, an injured body, or unexpected medical issues. In this world troubles abound, but in Christ, peace is profound.

John wept over the inaccessibility of God’s Word. In his vision of coming events in heaven, the apostle experienced the disappointment of needing someone worthy of unleashing the scroll of Scripture. But immediately a wise elder reassured the prophet that the Lion of the tribe of Judah—Jesus Christ—is worthy to unleash the truth. In unison an explosion of worship echoed throughout heaven: “Worthy is the Lamb!” In Christ we are worthy to access His Word.


“God may make you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith” (2 Thessalonians 1:11).

Disappointment can lead to disobedience. The hole in our heart is meant to grow our dependency on God because He brings wholeness and holiness to a lacerated soul. The Lord heals hurt feelings when we offer forgiveness, but disappointment feeds selfishness when we don’t get our way. So be wise. If your frustration overwhelms your faith, you can lose patience and respect. Allow your trust in Jesus to trump testy relationships. Adjust your expectations to His standard.

Appointments with God help us to deal with disappointment. He gives us rest when we are restless. He gives us calm when there is calamity. He gives us peace when there is chaos. He gives us trust when there is distrust. But how do we respond to those who disappoint us? We see them as our heavenly Father sees them—sheep in need of a shepherd. Friends falter, so will we judge them from a distance or love them up close?

Let God’s love cover your disappointment like a warm blanket. By faith, accept a friend’s forgiveness and your Savior’s acceptance.



“Then you will know that I am the LORD; those who hope in me will not be disappointed” (Isaiah 49:23).
How can I grow my love and obedience to God?

Related Readings
Job 6:20; Psalms 5:3; 22:5; John 6:60-71; 2 Corinthians 8:5; James 1:6-8


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Holy Spirit Unleashed

The Lamb had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth.
REVELATION 5:6

The Holy Spirit assumes a variety of roles in support of those surrendered to their Savior. They include the Spirit of wisdom and revelation to know Christ better, the Spirit of truth to guide in all truth, the Spirit of holiness to live in the power of the resurrected life of Christ, the Spirit of self-control to resist temptations and to remain resilient through trials, and the Spirit of love to receive strength and security. One Spirit distributes many gifts to Christ’s followers.

Jesus, the Lamb of God, was the final sacrifice for sin, and that sacrifice unleashed the power of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The cross was a catalyst for the Spirit’s manifest power throughout the ages. The seven horns represent perfect power, and the seven eyes express the explosion of the Spirit throughout the world as prophesied by Zechariah. What the apostle John envisions is a global outpouring of the Holy Spirit to draw the lost into the light of salvation, to heal the brokenhearted, and to gather the church to worship in the Spirit’s power. The Holy Spirit is unleashed to empower!

“I will pour out my Spirit on all people” (Joel 2:28).

Does your heart communicate fluently with the Holy Spirit, or does He sound foreign to you? God’s teacher—His Spirit—interprets His language of love. Through the power of the Spirit you are able to adore your Lord and experience focused worship. Yes, His sweet Spirit lifts your soul toward your loving heavenly Father. And the Holy Spirit not only facilitates faithful worship but also leads you in God’s will. The Holy Spirit partners with the heart to fuel a life of radical love and obedience. The Spirit discerns.

The Holy Spirit delivers the gospel message with compelling conviction, drawing humans toward heaven. The Spirit is the spark that lights the fuse of the good news. Evangelism energized by the Spirit will not be stopped by persecution, pride, or indifference. The Holy Spirit heals broken hearts, births joy out of sadness, and offers hope amid awful conditions. The Spirit is unleashed to set captives free!



“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor” (Luke 4:18).
Consider a 24-hour silent retreat to recalibrate your heart with the Holy Spirit.

Related Readings
Isaiah 61:1-3; Romans 8:2; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 12:13; 2 Corinthians 3:17


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Purpose of Praise

To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever.
REVELATION 5:13

We tend to think less of those who want us to think more of them. People who demand praise or require affirmation for every little action are emotionally unfit. An enlarged ego has to be told how much it is esteemed, but a small ego esteems others better than itself (Romans 12:10). Yet, the Lord Almighty expects us to praise Him. Why? He is all-sufficient, but God knows we are needy. Praising Him changes our perspectives and motivates us to pray.

The Lamb (Jesus) accompanies God the Father, who sits on His heavenly throne, surrounded by His Spirit (Revelation 1:4). This heavenly expression of the triune God compels Christ followers to exclaim, “Praise, honor, glory, and power forever and ever!” Our home in heaven is a worship fest of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Spirit. Just mentioning the name “Jesus” stirs our souls to thanksgiving and wholehearted devotion. Praise points us to the Lamb who was slain for our salvation. Praise expresses gratitude.

“John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’ ” (John 1:29).

Moreover, praising Jesus is our opportunity to tell people about Jesus. Just as we say, “You have to see this movie,” or, “This book will challenge your thinking and make you a better person”—thus we praise God so others might experience Him. It’s okay to say, “I still have issues, but since I trusted Jesus as my Savior, I have forgiveness, peace, and purpose.” We release our inner praise with outer thanksgiving to the Lord. Praise consummates our full appreciation of Christ.

What is the purpose of praise? It gives soul alignment to those saved by the grace of God. It offers to our Lord and Savior what He deserves and desires (not what He needs). The Lord knows our praise of Him is what’s best for us. Praise Him for His majestic creation, for He is the Creator. Praise Him for His precious children, for He is their heavenly Father. Praise Him for His good gifts, for He is a generous Giver. Praise His holy name!

“Sing the praises of the LORD, you his faithful people; praise his holy name” (Psalm 30:4).
How can my praise of God influence others to praise God?

Related Readings
Psalms 103:1; 146:1-2; Malachi 2:2; Luke 10:21; Romans 11:36; 1 Peter 2:9


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Trial by Fire

I looked, and there before me was a white horse! Its rider held a bow, and he was given a crown, and he rode out as a conqueror bent on conquest.
REVELATION 6:2

A trial by fire purifies. We normally do not invite trials or look forward to them as tools God uses for our purification, but they compel us toward intimacy and dependence on our heavenly Father. Satan’s desire is to drive us from God during our adversity, but God’s heart is to draw us unto Him as life heats up. Indeed, fiery trials seem to never let up or give up. The refining fires of heaven burn away pride and replace it with humility. Fear evaporates and is overcome by trust. God removes anxiety and replaces it with His peace. Refining fire is hot, but you are not alone.

The tribulation is a time when all hell breaks loose on earth. The antichrist deceives the masses and leads the people to become puppets for his hideous purposes. As an evil leader with evil intentions, he leads the people to do evil acts and kill each other. Though he rides on a white horse, the motives of his heart are blackened by his lust for power. Absent God’s people and the work of the Holy Spirit—since both have been raptured from the earth—the world is void of peace.

“In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials” (1 Peter 1:6).

But what about your present trials? Christ’s care provides a cup of refreshing water for your parched soul. It is for the love of Jesus that you persevere. Be patient. Allow Him to complete His work of refinement. You will love more deeply and forgive more fully. Hope is on the horizon and is already here, as Christ in you is the hope of glory. Hang on to your hope in Him and be made whole. Pain can polarize your relationship with God, or it can galvanize it in intimacy.

Let contentment overcome your ingratitude. Stare into the face of Jesus, for He is kind. He understands your plight. He is walking with you and is working through you. Allow God to channel His fiery trials into your character refinement. People will come out and watch a fire burn for God’s glory. Trials are His time to shine, and He shines the brightest when the impurities are the least. Only Christ is left—He is all you want—He is all you need!

“He said, ‘Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods’ ” (Daniel 3:25).

How does Christ want to refine my character during my trials and temptations?

Related Readings
Deuteronomy 7:19; Zechariah 13:9; Luke 22:28; James 1:2


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

God’s Peacekeeper


Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make people kill each other. To him was given a large sword.
REVELATION 6:4

God’s peacekeeper is His Son Jesus Christ. His first provision of peace is between God and man. When we trust Christ alone as our Savior and Lord, we are at peace with our heavenly Father. Before we placed our faith in Jesus, we were in conflict with the Almighty. Our soul was restless, at odds with its Creator. But once we surrender our selfish ways, we enjoy peace with God—and the peace of God in our hearts. We look to Jesus alone as our keeper of the peace. His gift is the rest His grace provides.

The antichrist will offer a counterfeit peace that looks good on the surface. It is alluring and exciting, but it only offers a temporary escape. In the days of tribulation on earth, Jesus describes an anxious world obsessed over “wars and rumors of wars” (Mark 13:7). These rumblings of a peaceless people prove to be a harbinger of what’s to come: world war, famine, and judgment. A promise of outward control offers a false sense of serenity, but only Jesus gives inner peace.

“He walked with me in peace and uprightness, and turned many from sin” (Malachi 2:6).

The peace of Jesus gives us peace with ourselves. The guilt of past sin is gone. If we shame ourselves over issues Christ has already covered by His thorough cleansing, we sin. The demons of guilt have no jurisdiction over the Justice of the Peace—Jesus! Trusting in Him empowers our souls. When we behold our Prince of Peace in uninterrupted worship, we receive His radical, peace-loving assurance. Our peacekeeper Jesus is our loyal ally. Our flesh mopes around afraid, but we have no need to fear since Jesus is near. He is our peace!

Christ can even make your enemies be at peace with you. They may not believe what you believe, but they will notice and respect your steadfast faith. Your love and respect toward others is a peace offering God uses to extend His grace. The calm Christ puts within you is a testimony for those in turmoil. A person who acknowledges their anxious heart is a prime candidate for the peace of God. Stay surrendered to your Savior, and your peaceful presence will draw others to Him—as God’s peacekeeper, Jesus Christ, settles your soul.



“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15).
Do I truly trust in my Savior Jesus to guard my heart and mind with His peace?

Related Readings
Numbers 6:26; Proverbs 16:7; John 14:27; Philippians 4:7


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible® through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Fear of Death


When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained.
REVELATION 6:9

Jesus has conquered death; therefore, followers of Jesus need not fear death. You may have a fear of dying but not of death. For the believer in Christ, death is a pass-through, a transition from this life to the next. Death is not final, for it is the doorway to eternity. Eternity is being in the physical presence of Jesus. Everything we have experienced with Christ on earth is an appetizer of what is to come. Faith can only digest a mere morsel of what God has in store for those who love Him.

John honors those who sacrifice their lives on the altar of the Lord’s love—such as Abel, the first martyr (Genesis 4:10; Hebrews 11:4). They died because of the transforming love of Christ dwelling in them. Courageous heroes of the faith do not compromise the truth of God’s Word, nor do they betray their loyal testimony to Jesus. Death releases us from the pain of suffering, which molds our character and faith in Christ. Jesus replaces fear of death with hope in heaven.

“We have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people—the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven” (Colossians 1:4-5).

Death is freedom and is not to be feared. So, in the meantime, make every effort to prepare yourself and others for death. The fear of death creeps in where there has been no preparation. You can ignore its reality, but you will still die. You can deny death but not its consequences. You may have a chance to repent on your deathbed, but why wait? Go with God’s sure thing—faith in Christ. He has died and risen from the dead to give you life, and faith overcomes fear.

The depth of wisdom that comes from the dying has the aroma of heaven. The expectation of death helps us to purify our priorities and evaluate our lives. Being with the dying and caring for them prepares you for your own moment of death. Death is an absolute. It may come suddenly or at the end of a long process, but either way, we know God can be trusted. God is good, and God is great. Because Jesus died and rose again, you will do the same. Fear only God and trust Christ.

“ ‘Death has been swallowed up in victory.’ Where, O death, is your victory?… But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:54-55,57).

Heavenly Father, may I die to whatever is not of You so I can live with You in eternity.

Related Readings
Matthew 27:52; Mark 8:35; John 12:23-25; 1 Corinthians 15:42-58


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible® through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Judgment of Christ

Hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of their wrath has come.
REVELATION 6:16-17

There are posers who profess to know God, but He will one day say to them, “I never knew you” (Matthew 7:23). It is scary to think individuals can believe they are okay with the Lord when they are not. Maybe they heard the truth of the cross, but they did not receive the truth by faith into their heart. They have never fully traded their trust in themselves for a total dependence on Christ. Faithless fools may have good religious feelings, but they have not surrendered to the convicting power of the Holy Spirit.

John describes the coming judgment of Christ. No one is excluded: Kings, princes, generals, the rich, the mighty, and everyone else must give an account of their life on earth. Fearful of God’s wrath, they call to the mountains and rocks to fall and cover them from the coming peril. In the end as in the beginning, sin causes mankind to try to hide from the Lord—a frivolous and naive response. The alternative is owning and repenting of our sin. Christ’s judgment exposes unsaved souls.

“This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous” (Matthew 13:49).

It is uncomfortable to picture a loving God having a system of judgment that includes hell. However, would He really be loving if He did not punish sin and reveal religious hypocrites for pretending to be something they’re not? We water down the Word of God when we feel obligated to apologize for the Lord’s consequences. Oh how He loves us, because on Judgment Day, wrongs will be made right in His sight.

In the meantime, pray for those who genuinely believe they are right with God but have yet to be born again. Teach those who are religious but lost about submission to the Lord and the desperate desire for Him that follows. Help fellow church members move from a head full of knowledge to a heart full of passion. Information about Jesus comes alive when Jesus is experienced in a personal, loving, and intimate relationship. Ask the Holy Spirit to flush out impostors today, before it is too late for them to change. Trust Jesus as Savior and avoid Him as Judge.


“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9)

Heavenly Father, lead me into a genuine relationship with You through Your Son Jesus.

Related Readings
Zephaniah 1:14-15; Matthew 25:32; 1 Corinthians 14:21; Revelation 20:15


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible® through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Protected by Angels

After this I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds of the earth to prevent any wind from blowing on the land or on the sea or on any tree.
REVELATION 7:1

Angels are at our heavenly Father’s beckoning. They are poised to support, protect, and care for His children at His prompting. Jesus could have called on a company of heavenly help, but He resisted and remained in the crucible of the cross. He had an escape route for His suffering; however, His great love led Him to sacrifice His life and save mankind from sin. God’s angel armies minister to our needs, but they may or may not deliver us from harm.

The Lord will deploy His angels to delay judgment in order for the 144,000 Jewish believers in Jesus to be sealed as servants of God. The destruction of the earth is stayed until souls are saved—their white robes cleansed by the blood of the Lamb. The elder explained to John how these Jewish Christians were survivors of the great tribulation—but now they gratefully serve God day and night, before His throne in His temple (Revelation 7:14-15). God’s angels provide personal protection.

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven” (Matthew 18:10).

Your Father in heaven has angels assigned to your well-being. They constantly experience the glory of God, so they can surround you with His glory. Since your angels see the face of the Lord, they can help you face your difficulties. You have no need to fear, because the God of angel armies stands beside you, in front of you, behind you, above you, and below you. You are covered by His host of angels. Thank the Lord of hosts for His help in your time of need.

Above all, look for the angelic armies of Almighty God to defeat Satan’s forces on the spiritual battlefield. Like Job, your heavenly Father’s strategy may be to use your faithfulness in the middle of suffering to disarm the devil. Your obedience is oxygen to your spiritual lungs. Moreover, your angels adore the Lord with praise. Their example of genuine worship is worth emulating. Yes, your angels have God’s authority to support His will for you!

“Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels?” (Matthew 26:53).
In what ways are the Lord’s angels protecting me and my family from present dangers?

Related Readings
Isaiah 14:12-15; Acts 12:11-23; Hebrews 1:14; 2:7-9; Revelation 22:16


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible® through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Do You Own a Passport?

Before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.
REVELATION 7:9

Christ commands Christians to go into all the world and make disciples. The Lord’s vision is for all nations to come to know Him through faith in Jesus. He carries a burden to lift the burden of sin from those who need forgiveness. Our heavenly Father wants all people around the globe to hear the good news of Jesus and to grow in a personal relationship with Him. Disciples are made by hearing the gospel, believing, and obeying Christ’s commands. Is your faith expression landlocked for fear of leaving your comfort zone? Have you experienced the joy of taking Jesus to the shores beyond your borders?

Heaven will be populated with people from every tribe and tongue because of people who faithfully carried the gospel to faraway places. The evangelist John paints a portrait of diverse ethnicity in eternity—one result of 144,000 Jewish witnesses taking the gospel of Jesus to the ends of the earth. The Lord’s love reaches beyond all geographic borders to bring all cultures to Christ.


“I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth” (Isaiah 49:6).

Jesus states very clearly that He accompanies us as we go forth by faith to share His love. He energizes. He empowers. He engages. His Spirit invites the lost to Himself. His overseas mission mobilization is not limited to the few “navy seals” of the faith. All disciples are called to make disciples. Those who undertake cross-cultural missions need spiritual preparation and we should minister to those in our own homes before exporting our faith to foreign families. Our first priority is to live out what we believe with those who know us the best.

Moreover, manage your money well, so debt is not an obstacle to obeying God. Be free from the shackles of financial entrapment, so you are free to serve the Lord in different time zones. Perhaps you start with a short-term mission trip to “test the waters.” In fact, most people will not be called to a permanent overseas assignment in disciple making, but many can travel for a time. Obtain a passport so you can be ready to follow Christ’s command and make disciples of all nations.

“You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
Heavenly Father, grow me into a faithful disciple, so I can make disciples of all nations.

Related Readings
1 Chronicles 16:8; Zechariah 2:11; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 13:47


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible® through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Live This Life for the Next Life

They cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne.”
REVELATION 7:9-10

This life is preparation for the next life. Those who live only for this brief time on earth will one day wake up to a joyless eternity, but those who live intentionally for the next life will experience a joyful eternity. The object of our focus determines the level of our fulfillment. Focusing on God and others protects us from being consumed by petty personal issues. Deeply satisfied Christians invest their lives in selfless service. Intentional living praises God.

John describes a scene in heaven reminiscent of the Jewish custom of celebration during harvest time. Many had faithfully tilled the soil, planted the seeds, and cultivated the tender plants, while God provided the growing conditions of rain and sunshine. Cooperation with the divine agenda reaped the Lord’s abundant provision. In addition, people celebrated the Lord’s past faithfulness. Walking with Jesus on earth is a lifelong apprenticeship for the worship of Jesus for eternity in heaven. Joy is a choice!

“As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God” (1 Peter 4:2).

Is your rudder custom crafted by the love of Christ, or are you rudderless and adrift on the rough sea of life? When the Spirit guides you, He gives you life. If God is your guide, you will go places with Him that are impossible without Him. This is the joy of doing life with Jesus—not busily doing life for Jesus. The Holy Spirit’s rhythm of life is not without challenges, but He is in harmony with what’s best. At the core of His calling are joy, peace, and worship.

What areas of your life need prayerful intentionality? Pursuing a relationship with Christ feeds your soul, humbles your heart, and expands your mind. Spending time every day with the Truth and the Life will nurture your wisdom and bring light to your life. Your investment of time and energy into people and God’s Word will last forever, so being intentional with those who do not know Jesus reaps joy on earth and rejoicing in heaven. Do you know some people who need the Lord? Are you praying for them? Intentional love saves souls.

“The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field” (Matthew 13:44).

Who in my life doesn’t know the Lord? How can I be Jesus to them?

Related Readings
Psalm 145:7; Isaiah 49:13; Luke 10:20; Romans 12:12; Colossians 1:12


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible® through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

A God Hug

The Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; “he will lead them to springs of living water.” “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”
REVELATION 7:17

A God hug is a timely gift. His hugs soothe, comfort, and calm. He is never late in offering His affection or too busy to stand still and embrace His human creation. The Spirit gently caresses burdened and painful shoulders. His compassion has never failed. His mercy is fresh every day. As a cool cream alleviates an itchy skin rash, so His balm of grace relieves a rash of worries. A God hug holds on until healing occurs. He holds on tight.

Jesus is the Great Shepherd who will tenderly lead His sheep to springs of living water. Though the sovereign Judge and the Lion of Judah, Jesus also cares for His sheep, whose hearts are heavy and hurting. Tears trickle into the hands of the One who holds the world and who wipes away weeping with His gentle touch. Sheep who look to their compassionate Shepherd for care will not despair, but take comfort in His secure affection.

“The LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones” (Isaiah 49:13).

A God hug does not happen on the run, but while we stand still. “Slow down, My child,” He says. “Hush. I have this. Be still, and let Me hold you. Rest in My arms.” We must learn to stand still sometimes and trust the right activities will get done in the right time. When we schedule time for the Lord to express His love to us, we receive strength for the journey. Otherwise we exhaust our ability to encourage, lacking an infusion of Christ’s courage. His hugs hearten us. The Lord comforts us so we can comfort others.

Shout for joy in praise to your Creator for His comfort and compassion. Brag on His name and extol Him for His divine affection. Like the father of the prodigal son who came home, your Father in heaven can’t wait to embrace you in your shame, stress, or success. He runs to greet you with warm acceptance, so throw yourself into His arms. Cast your cares on Christ and abandon your life to the Lord. Welcome His affections and enjoy His sweet embrace!

“I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow” (Jeremiah 31:13).
Heavenly Father, I receive Your love and affection. Thanks for Your comforting hugs just when I need them.

Related Readings
Psalm 23:4; Jeremiah 8:18; Zechariah 10:2; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible® through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional

 

[Azriel]

Moment of Silence

When he opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour.
REVELATION 8:1

Sometimes silence is the best strategy. How good does it feel to trade your exhausting striving for some energizing silence? Our flesh wants to engage in an emotional debate, but our spirit says wait. When we pause for the Holy Spirit to calm our conflicted hearts, we will be better equipped for confronting the issues before us. Our daily battles are best fought when faith in Jesus is at the forefront. A person may agitate us, but by God’s grace, we can refrain from a rude reaction and pray for them. We won’t allow another’s bad day to ruin our day. God can speak clearly when we are quiet and patient.

Heaven grew silent for 30 minutes in awe of God Almighty and in a solemn moment of respect for the imminent destruction of earth and its inhabitants. Evil is eventually and fully judged, and secret sins or blatant bad behavior will encounter crushing consequences. Even the morally good people who rejected Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior will regret their choice. Heaven’s silence precedes earth’s loud obliteration.

“This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it’ ” (Isaiah 30:15).

Our flesh screams for its way, but we must remain silent with respect. Our words may delay the work of God’s Word. For example, if someone we know is seeking wisdom from their heavenly Father, better to pray with them than to assume we know what they need to do. Instead of prescribing a solution for them based on our own experience, we can refer them to Scriptures relevant to their situation. God speaks through His Word.

Our silence invites the Lord’s inner strength into our souls. Patience grows in an environment of trust. Instead of saying something we later regret, we can wait on the Spirit to speak into the situation. He may impress humility on our hearts or forgiveness on the hearts of those we’ve let down. God can use another caring believer to bring clarity to the confusion or a solution to the problem. Surrender to Christ and invite Him to fight for you. Your silence releases His resources.

“The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent” (Exodus 14:14 NASB).
Heavenly Father, in my silence I hope to hear Your voice and submit my will to Yours.

Related Readings
1 Samuel 17:47; Psalms 24:8; 35:1; Matthew 26:63; Acts 15:12


Boyd Bailey, Two Minutes in the Bible® through Revelation: A 90-Day Devotional