Two Minutes in the Bible through Revelation

[Azriel]

Resist Ungodly Spiritual Influences

A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives its mark on their forehead or on their hand, they, too, will drink the wine of God’s fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath.”
REVELATION 14:9-10

Unholy, unseen forces press their agenda of doubt, lies, and temptation onto God fearers. Unrighteous influences do not rest until they make believers in Jesus restless in their faith. Evil authorities of darkness look for ways to create fear and uncertainty. Demons laugh when they can pit good people against one another. They try to confuse Christians who are stuck in a spiritual struggle.

The beast is an unholy force that attempts to force his mark of loyalty on those who reject God. The Lord is our holy advocate who defeats unholy spiritual forces. Yes, Jesus has broken the devil’s power over life and death. Like a roaring lion, Satan still tries to intimidate and manipulate us into a fearful panic, but Christ is King. He has tamed the toothless tyrant. Our Savior is with us as we struggle.

“Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God” (Leviticus 19:31).

As you search for spiritual reality and stability, avoid false teachers and spiritists who call up the dead—for they are dead wrong. The occult, astrologists, and horoscopes are a spiritual sham that only feed fanciful living. Your heart hungers for help, but you are wise to protect it from spiritual junk food. Satisfy your soul’s appetite with healthy routines. Engage in a Bible-believing church, meditate daily on Scripture, pray, and meet regularly in a caring community of Christians.

If you struggle alone in your spiritual quest, you will miss God’s best. However, when you have a safe environment to share with other struggling saints, you will see Jesus in them. The Holy Spirit works through other submitted followers of God to give you comfort when you are hurting and wisdom when you are unsure. Like a good soldier, surround yourself with a squad of loyal comrades who watch your back. Prayers of righteous friends frustrate the devil and his demons. Your struggles will subside as you feel peace from prayer support and when your hope is in Christ!

“Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12).

Heavenly Father, I need You to stabilize my faith as I struggle with doubt and confusion.

Related Readings
Leviticus 20:6; Isaiah 8:19; John 20:27; Romans 8:37-39


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

 

[Azriel]

Remain Faithful

Remain faithful to Jesus.
REVELATION 14:12

Faithfulness tends to be practiced by the few. However, for all committed followers of Christ, the clarion call is to remain faithful. He is the object of your adoration and your obedience, and He deserves and desires your faithfulness. It should be easier to remain faithful when the object of your faithfulness is as pure as the driven snow. There is nothing about Jesus that doesn’t elicit faithfulness. His fairness invites faithfulness; His grace and generosity generate faithfulness; His love longs for faithfulness; His holiness inspires faithfulness; His compassion creates faithfulness; His forgiveness foretells faithfulness; His judgment motivates faithfulness; His life models faithfulness. Jesus remained faithful to the very end, and in Him, so can you.

Is there anything about Jesus that keeps you from remaining faithful? Who else can you go to for eternal life (John 6:68)? Faithfulness to Jesus is par for the Christian life. He is the standard by which you live. Even under the onslaught of illness, remain faithful. As circumstances around you crumble, remain faithful. When people mistreat and misunderstand you, remain faithful. If you lose your job, remain faithful. When a close friend lets you down and rejects you, remain faithful. Faithfulness to Jesus is the chorus of Christian living.

“I have sent to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus” (1 Corinthians 4:17).

His faithfulness to you is the measure of your capacity to remain faithful. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit provides you with the capability to remain faithful. Remaining faithful to people is a natural byproduct of remaining faithful to Jesus, and your faithfulness may be the very thing that draws them to Him. Faithfulness reminds people of a faithful Savior who loves and forgives.

Make it a goal to remain faithful to “undeserving” relatives or friends. Your attitude toward them may attract them to God. You may need to dissolve a working partnership, but you can still salvage the relationship. You can remain faithful even when the other party doesn’t. Let your faithfulness, not your feelings, be the gauge for your giving, your service, your forgiveness, and your love. Above all else, remain faithful to Jesus, for He is the Faithful One.

“He is the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them—he remains faithful forever” (Psalm 146:6).
Who needs me to remain faithful to our relationship, even though they have been unfaithful?

Related Readings
Micah 7:2; 2 Timothy 2:13; Hebrews 8:9; Revelation 2:13


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

 

[Azriel]

Reward of Faithfulness

This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep his commands and remain faithful to Jesus.
REVELATION 14:12

Faithfulness is doing what I said I would do. It is an integrity issue. Commitments are not to be taken lightly. For example, a verbal commitment is an unwritten contract. However, these can be the most risky and the most misunderstood. If we make a verbal commitment, it behooves us to make sure it is plain with all parties involved. Slow down, communicate more, and show up on time for appointments. Less is more. Most of us would be much better off if we made fewer commitments.

The Lord has been faithful even in our unfaithfulness. God does what He says He will. He is faithful to forgive our sin, and He leads us to forgive too. He is faithful to convict us of sin and to lead us into righteousness. He is faithful to flood our souls with peace, joy, and contentment. God understands what it means to keep a commitment—even at great cost. The death of His only Son was the fulfillment of an old promise. Indeed, the Lord is faithful to the faithful.

“To the faithful you show yourself faithful, to the blameless you show yourself blameless” (Psalm 18:25).

After conversion, we commit to following Christ. Following Jesus requires fidelity of faith. There are no equals to our love for Him. He tells us in His Word to “let our yes be yes and our no be no,” and we obey because we want to be faithful to Him and others.

Unfaithfulness will catch up with us. How many of us go to bed with conflicting relational commitments? Do not let work, hobbies, children, or money become your idols of activity. Faithfulness begins and ends with follow-through with our commitments to God.

Yes, the Lord rewards your faithfulness. Your faithfulness does not go unnoticed. One of the greatest rewards is the gift of trust. Faithfulness births trust and grows trust, so over time you earn the reputation of a trustworthy person. Those who can be trusted with a little can be trusted with much. Thus, be faithful, so you can be trusted. Above all, be faithful because He is faithful. A faithful servant will hear their Master Jesus say, “Well done!”

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ ” (Matthew 25:23).
How is the Lord faithful to me? To what commitment do I need to remain faithful?

Related Readings
Deuteronomy 7:9; 11:13-15; Psalm 37:28; Matthew 5:37; 1 Timothy 1:12


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

 

[Azriel]

Finish Well

I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.”
REVELATION 14:13


God is not looking for perfection, but He does desire passion for Himself and obedience to His Word. People who do not finish well have decided to take control themselves. They act as if they have a better plan than God. This type of decision-making process will have limited success, if any, in the Lord’s eyes. Does it mean we will have no regrets when we finish well? No.

The Christian life is a marathon. Jesus is at the finish line, and as you run, you are surrounded by an eternal entourage of people who have been faithful before. Your Savior and His saints are praying for you and encouraging you to finish well—which is His will. Don’t lose heart or become proud. Keep your focus on the ultimate destination: the prize of Christ’s commendation that awaits you. Die in the Lord and you will live eternally with the Lord.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:1-3).

Along the race of life you will encounter difficulty. You will tire and need rest. You will have lonely stretches of road where you feel like quitting. At other times the race will seem like an uphill battle, with every muscle in your body screaming for attention. But thankfully, there are times of refreshment and rejuvenation. After you have run up a hill of hope, there is an opportunity to enjoy the righteous run down the other side. Intimacy with God positions you to hear His voice, obey Him, and finish well.

Finishing well means you live as if you are dying—because we all are terminal. We must live today for Christ, since tomorrow may not come. We live best when we live as if today were our last day. Finish well today on behalf of your heavenly Father, family, and friends. A life well spent makes your Savior smile and say…

“Well done, my good servant!” (Luke 19:17).
What does it mean for me to finish well? Am I finishing well today?

Related Readings
Proverbs 20:28; Isaiah 26:2; Acts 27:25; 2 Timothy 4:6-8


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

 

[Azriel]

Rest from Work

“Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”
REVELATION 14:13

Some people have a hard time resting from their work. They love their work, enjoy their work, and may even worship their work. Hard, smart, and productive work is good, but worshipping work is bad. Doing so is reckless and can lead to ruin in our relationships, our bodies, and even our finances. Work that is worshipped gets out of hand quickly. God is the only one who deserves worship. It is good to be proud of quality work, but do not allow work to become an end in itself. Your true identity comes from Christ, not work.

When you work all the time, your moorings of faith tend to drift from Christ to yourself. “Can God be trusted enough for me to rest from my work?” Of course—He divinely redeems the time of your limited work and produces lasting results. You are His workmanship in Christ Jesus; when you take the time to cease working, God accelerates His work in you. Some of His best work takes place when you are resting from your labor. Believers rest for eternity, while unbelievers are in torment forever.

“There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from his own works, just as God did from His” (Hebrews 4:9-10).

You can physically be away from work and still be at work mentally, so free your mind from this split-focused activity. Do not make your mind jealous over your body’s freedom from work. Rest your thoughts from work, and you will discover your thinking is more robust and innovative when you reengage. Shift your thinking to the bigger thoughts of God and His plan. Superimpose simple faith in Him over the complex issues that are assaulting your rest.

Your mind, body, and emotions are all part of your Sabbath rest. Your Sabbath rest can be a catalyst for others to engage God. Set the example and watch others follow. Your Sabbath rest gives others permission to do the same. It’s not always easy to get to God’s rest, but once you arrive, it is well worth the effort. His rest ignites your obedience and trust, so rest from work and rest in Him. Then watch your work become better, more productive—sustained by the Spirit.

“Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience” (Hebrews 4:11).
What areas of my life do I need to leave in the Lord’s hands?

Related Readings
Psalms 46:10; 62:1-8; Galatians 1:10; Hebrews 4:1; Revelation 14:13


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

 

[Azriel]

Harvest of Unholiness

The angel swung his sickle on the earth, gathered its grapes and threw them into the great winepress of God’s wrath.
REVELATION 14:19

The promise of eternal judgment and hell is not fun to talk about, but the somber reality is relayed by our Savior Jesus. He is our Savior because He saves us from our sins and from eternal damnation in hell. Hell brings separation, but Jesus brings reconciliation. Hell brings torment, but Jesus brings peace. Hell brings darkness, but Jesus brings light. Hell hurts, but heaven heals.

The same loving Lord who promises heaven also promises hell. Indeed, heaven is sweeter because of the sour taste eternal separation from God leaves on the lips. We begin our experience of hell on earth when we choose our own way instead of Christ’s way. Separation from God here on earth is a precursor to separation from the Almighty in eternity. Hell is a fearful place of loneliness that lacks love and security. An angel from heaven will swing his sickle of judgment on earth, harvesting unholy grapes—evildoers destined for God’s winepress of wrath.

“I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him” (Luke 12:5).

The fear of the Lord brings focus to His holiness and our unholy condition outside of Christ. You may experience the wrath of men because you choose to fear God, but better to be known as a God-fearing man or woman than to experience the wrath of God. The power of man looks powerless in the presence of the One who has the power to cast the unsaved into hell. Sinners in the hands of a holy God desperately need His grace.

You and I are blessed to have the opportunity to believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of the living God. He saves us not only from hell but also from our sins and from ourselves. By His sacrificial love, He exchanges eternity in an unrighteous hell for a righteous heaven. Yes, you can repent on your deathbed, but why not start heaven’s journey now? Hell’s fury is for the faithless, but when you walk by faith, you have only the Lord to fear.

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death” (Romans 8:1-2).

Lord, give me holy boldness and uncommon compassion to warn the unholy of Your wrath to come.

Related Readings
Matthew 23:33; Mark 9:43-47; Luke 16:22-24; James 3:6; 2 Peter 2:4-9


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

 

[Azriel]

Songs of Deliverance

They held harps given them by God and sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: “Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations.”
REVELATION 15:2-3

As followers of Jesus, we can sing a song of deliverance—for the Lord has liberated us by His love, freed us from fear, and adopted us as His beloved children!

John describes with striking imagery the defeated beast, who represents our fleshly desires. The Lamb defeated our foe with His sacrifice on the cross. Ultimately, we who worship the Lamb will celebrate at the seashore of our salvation—our final deliverance over the beast. We will sing the song of Moses, with lyrics from the Lord who freed His children from the bondage of their own beast—Pharaoh. The Red Sea swallowed up the Egyptian army. Any adversaries of Almighty God are destined to defeat. We worship here, anticipating our victory party there!

“Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the LORD: ‘I will sing to the LORD, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea” (Exodus 15:1).

Do you ever feel as though you are a slave to a nagging sin—one that won’t let you go? Shame may keep you chained inside a self-made solitary confinement. Love bids you to come out of sin’s shadow and enjoy the Lord’s light of complete and total acceptance. Resist feeling unworthy by remembering with joyful thanksgiving that a worthy Lamb was slain for your sin and reigns as King of the ages. Christ is a Christian’s only Master. A slave to Jesus is mastered by Him.

Since we have been saved from sin, we sing grateful anthems, including “Amazing Grace”: “The Lord has promised good to me. His word my hope secures; He will my shield and portion be as long as life endures.” Like a melodious, orange-breasted robin, a soul that’s been set free flees from its fears and flies almost effortlessly upon the wind of invisible love. Sing, yes, sing! The Holy Spirit delivers you out of sin into your Savior’s love.

“My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you—I whom you have delivered. My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long, for those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion” (Psalm 71:23-24).

What nagging sin has the Lord delivered me from that causes me to shout praise and thanksgiving?

Related Readings
2 Samuel 22:1-4; Psalms 20:5; 144:9; Isaiah 12:5; Ephesians 5:19


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

 

[Azriel]

Fear of the Lord

Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy.
REVELATION 15:4

I had two types of high school football coaches. I was afraid of one coach because of his tirades and his angry, intimidating language. He motivated me for a short time because I was afraid of not doing precisely what he wanted. The second coach also expected a high standard of performance, but he was both instructional and inspirational. I knew I had room for failure with him, but my goal was growth. I perceived the first coach as an angry man who expected perfection. Of course, I could never please him. The second coach simply expected my best—and he got it. As a result, he and I could celebrate together.

The fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Without awe of the Almighty, we have no access to His insight. When we lack reverence for His holiness, we also lack an understanding of God’s ways. The first step in acquiring wisdom from Almighty God is to fear Him (Proverbs 9:10). Reverence includes worshipping the Lord’s majesty and dreading His judgment. Once we embrace a healthy fear of the Lord, we discover peace, knowledge, and love for the Holy One.

“Praise the LORD! How joyful are those who fear the LORD and delight in obeying his commands” (Psalm 112:1 NLT).

If you are driven by guilt or shame or feel the need for perfect behavior to be accepted by God, you will always believe that you fall short and that the Lord is not pleased with you. But if you see your heavenly Father’s love and holiness as a refuge in a world of chaos and confusion, you will learn to rest in Christ and learn from Him. You fear God by fearing the consequences of sin, but you freely receive His forgiveness when you do sin. Fear of the Lord draws you closer to Him.

The fear of God is the pathway to freely worshipping and praising Him. Those who have experienced salvation in Jesus—who have been rescued from the wrath of the Almighty—have a holy cheerfulness they lift to the Lord in gratitude and thankful praise. Joy in Jesus is the language of heartfelt worship. The more we fear the Lord’s holiness, the more we are free to love and worship Him for who He is—our heavenly Father, the Maker of heaven and earth. Hell has neither fury nor flames of fear for those who fear God alone!

“Serve the LORD with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling” (Psalm 2:11 NLT).
What does it mean for me to fear God but not be afraid of God?

Related Readings
Nehemiah 1:11; Psalm 96:9; Proverbs 14:26; 19:23; Revelation 14:7


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

 

[Azriel]

Covenant of Love

After this I looked, and I saw in heaven the temple—that is, the tabernacle of the covenant law—and it was opened.
REVELATION 15:5

The Lord’s covenant law is completed by His covenant of love with Israel and His covenant of love with His church, the bride of Christ. We are united with Christ in the bonds of love forever. Yes, those who fall in love with Jesus stand at the altar of trust and vow to remain faithful until death brings them into eternal oneness with their Lord. Our fidelity is evidence of our genuine love and commitment to God. His covenant of love compels us to be loved and to love.

God loves us unconditionally, even when we fail to reciprocate His love. Though the Lord’s love is jealous, He does not jettison us from His presence when we ignore Him. We may drift away from Him with our unwise decisions, but His love is available to bring us back to the security and serenity of His presence. Christ’s covenant of love to His forgiven bride keeps us humble and grateful. Because of His great love for us, we long to love and obey the Lord Jesus.

“LORD, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God …keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments” (Nehemiah 1:5).

We love the Lord because He first loved us. We pursue the Lord because He first pursued us. We serve the Lord because He first served us. We remain faithful to the Lord because He remains faithful to us. Yes, we love Him and keep His commands because of what His grace and love have already done for us. His is a divine gift that provides what we need most. Our greatest need is to be loved by our heavenly Father. Christ’s covenant of love grows love in our own hearts.

God’s covenant of love is not to be taken for granted. It should not be an emotional acknowledgment we act on only when our feelings cooperate. No, when we entered into covenant with Christ, we committed to Christ and to all He represents: love, obedience, generosity, holiness, service, worship, prayer, Scripture, mercy, grace, forgiveness, evangelism, discipleship, and the church. Since He keeps His covenant of love, we are the bride of Christ who loves, cherishes, and obeys.

“We know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them” (1 John 4:16).
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your covenant of love, which invites me to be loved by You and compels me to love You and others.

Related Readings
Daniel 9:4; Matthew 22:37-40; 1 Corinthians 13:13; 16:14; Galatians 5:6; 1 John 4:7-12


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

 

[Azriel]

Benefits of Repentance

They refused to repent and glorify him.
REVELATION 16:9

Authentic repentance is not perfunctory, but fruitful in its follow-through. When the Holy Spirit arrests my heart and pricks my conscience about my behavior, I want to change. A bold, loving friend may expose my bad habit or unacceptable attitude. If so, will I change? Indeed, fruitful repentance is not only words of remorse, but also a change in the way I have been acting. Repentance is the removal of my pride, an encounter with my blind spots.

Fruitful repentance may be the hardest for those of us who have been in the faith for a long time. We get settled into a mode of thinking that quits learning and growing. We can become comfortable with Christ and forget to fear Him. We can take God for granted and go places with our mind that a newfound faith would have forbidden. Make certain that excuses or cover-ups do not become default actions when you encounter a need for change. Pride refuses to repent, be fruitful, or glorify God.

“Produce fruit in keeping with repentance” (Matthew 3:8).

When you hear truth that is contrary to your living, how do you respond? If you have a secret between you and God, it will get worse unless you confess it to others. Do not hide behind your teaching role in the church or your status with your family. People who love you will love you more when you come clean about your judgmental attitude, a flirtatious relationship, or an air of spiritual superiority. For example, don’t hide any spending from your husband or wife, as this leads to great loss of trust between spouses. Penitent people do not conceal their sin—they reveal it.

So what are some evidences of fruitful repentance? “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). Real repentance is not just embarrassment over being caught, but also taking responsibility with positive and proactive changes for the good. There is a transformation from haughtiness to humility, judgment to grace, fear to trust, and pride to penitence. Truly repentant people fear the Lord and find rest for their souls as they return to good standing.

“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).
What attitude or actions of mine do I need to change? What positive fruit in my life is evidence of my repentance?

Related Readings
2 Chronicles 32:26; Psalm 51:1-13; Matthew 21:32; Acts 3:19


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

 

[Azriel]

Why Some Curse God

They cursed God on account of the plague of hail, because the plague was so terrible.
REVELATION 16:21

God does not waste pain. Jesus came to defeat the enemy by way of suffering on the cross, not by way of inflicting violence on the violent. Man’s violent act toward Christ turned into God’s extravagant love and forgiveness through Jesus. My heart hurts when I see pictures of innocent victims whose bloody bodies are riddled by bullets or bombs from cowardly terrorists. My sense of justice is outraged. Where is God amid these ungodly acts? What should be our response to suffering?

Some curse God because they do not see God in their circumstances—He feels foreign and disinterested in their desperate situation. But it is in our feelings of desperation that we desperately need the Lord. He calls us to praise Him, not curse Him when our pain is the most intense. Unbelievers curse God for His judgment, while believers praise God for His matchless mercy.

“It only makes sense that God, by whom and for whom everything exists, would choose to bring many of us to His side by using suffering to perfect Jesus, the founder of our faith, the pioneer of our salvation” (Hebrews 2:10 VOICE).

Does your suffering or someone else’s seem unfair or unnecessary? If so, by faith seek to see the bigger story of Christ’s salvation at work in other needy souls. Our Lord Jesus does not waste pain. Just as modern technology generates electricity from recycled landfill waste, so God’s amazing grace can rescue souls buried in a landfill of lost love. Instead of seeing injustice as just another needless crime, the Holy Spirit uses injustice to justify those separated from God in their sin. Your longsuffering is the Spirit’s opportunity to draw lost souls to Jesus.

So, what does the Lord expect of us in the middle of suffering? Our heavenly Father’s desire is for His children to draw deeper into Christ’s living water from His well of grace. Satan may try to ambush our trust in Jesus with trials and tribulations, or even worse, fame and fortune. But though our bodies and souls may suffer, we gladly endure pain for the sake of the gospel. Suffering is the canvas on which Christ etches His eternal invitation to be with Him.

“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings” (Philippians 3:10).
Who needs my comfort and prayers in the middle of current pain and suffering?

Related Readings
Zephaniah 3:19-20; Luke 24:26; 2 Corinthians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:9; Hebrews 5:8


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

 

[Azriel]

Spiritual Prostitution

The name written on her forehead was a mystery: Babylon the great, the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations of the earth.
REVELATION 17:5

Unfortunately, there are those who use religion to get their way. Unseemly businesspeople use the art of Christian conversation to give the appearance of having values and principles based on the Bible. However, once they make the sale or close the deal, their self-serving and dishonest ways reveal who they really are—promoters of false spirituality. Some single adults may even prey on other unsuspecting single adults in church. They attend church to form relationships and then take advantage of trusting souls.

One of the worst types of deception is spiritual deception—using God to get our way. In marriage a husband may use submission to control his wife, or a wife may use grace to withhold physical intimacy from her husband. Therefore, warn those who try to buy the Holy Spirit for their benefit, like Simon in the early church (Acts 8:17-19). Instead, we cultivate authentic spirituality in our hearts and minds through prayer, worship, and community. Those who use religion to satisfy sensual desires will one day be exposed as imposters.


“She took hold of him and kissed him and with a brazen face she said: ‘Today I fulfilled my vows, and I have food from my fellowship offering at home’ ” (Proverbs 7:13-14).

True spirituality, on the other hand, is motivated and controlled by the Spirit of Christ. Almighty God initiates authentic faith. True spirituality does not only look out for itself but is sincerely concerned with serving others. You are comfortable in the presence of authentic believers because you know they care for you. Their business and religious activities are signposts of their integrity.

Their yes is their yes, and their no is their no. What you see is what you get. True spirituality comes over time—forged on the anvil of adversity, taught at the hearth of humility, and received at the gate of God’s grace. You know your religion is real when you love others above your own needs and you care for the poor and needy. True spirituality leads others to love God and obey His commands—unstained by the ways of the world.

“Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world” (James 1:27 NASB).
Whom do I need to confront in love about using their “Christianity” for selfish intentions?

Related Readings
Ecclesiastes 7:4; Matthew 25:36; 2 Corinthians 1:17; Colossians 2:23


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

 

[Azriel]

Wise Decision Making

This calls for a mind with wisdom.
REVELATION 17:9

Wise decision making is not accidental, but intentional. A wise person has a humble understanding of the need for the Lord’s insightful solutions to very serious issues. Wisdom comes over time to those whose priority is wisdom hunting. Like a patient hunter who looks for the best time and place to bag game, so seekers of wisdom are always in search of scriptural trophies of truth.

Humble seekers will find wisdom. Wise decision making is necessary in a life that leverages the Lord’s favor. The Almighty is on the lookout for those who align themselves with His agenda. He is wisdom, He offers wisdom, and He blesses wisdom. Wise are we to daily look toward God for His game plan. We especially need wisdom when we have conflicting conclusions to consider. Are you facing a life-or-death dilemma? If so, ask Jesus to show you the wise path to take.

“The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17-18).

What if someone makes a decision without consulting you, even though the decision affects your life? Will you decide to respond in humble confrontation or drift away as a victim? Sometimes parents, bosses, or friends make unwise decisions that affect you negatively. Whatever your circumstances, you can find wisdom to work through your turmoil. Or, if you are facing unforeseen success, Holy Scripture can give you insight about excellent financial stewardship.

We make the best decisions when we focus on the long term rather than the short term. Hence, make sure to submit any of your fears to faith. When we ask God for help, generosity overcomes greed and gratitude overcomes discontentment. Impulsiveness gives way to patience. He calms our anxieties and sheds light on the right decisions, the right paths. Are the choices you face today focused exclusively on your needs, or are you motivated by something much bigger than yourself? Seek the Lord for clarity, and confusion will melt away.


“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5).

God, will You remind me to consult You before I make important decisions?

Related Readings
1 Kings 3:9,16-28; Daniel 1:17; Matthew 7:7; James 3:13


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

 

[Azriel]

God’s Purpose Accomplished

God has put it into their hearts to accomplish his purpose by agreeing to hand over to the beast their royal authority, until God’s words are fulfilled.
REVELATION 17:17

God will accomplish His purpose. It may be with or without us, but He will execute His will. God does not back down or hold back when it comes to fulfilling His plan. He knows what is best and is bent toward carrying out His good will. Nothing can stop God from accomplishing His purpose. War cannot stop His purpose because He will draw people to Himself amid the atrocities of battle. Illness cannot stop His purpose because He will reveal His care, compassion, and healing. Death cannot stop His purpose because God will graduate believers in Christ to heaven and nonbelievers to hell.

Sin cannot stop His purpose because Christ forgave sin by His death on the cross. Sinners cannot stop His purpose because there are consequences for wrong and, ultimately, judgment by God. Satan cannot stop God’s purpose because what the devil means for evil, God can use for good. God’s purpose is a freight train that travels down the tracks of obedience and disobedience, saints and sinners. Its momentum on behalf of mankind cannot be stopped. He will not be denied.

“I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do” (John 17:4).

What is God’s purpose? One purpose of God is to adopt everyone into His family who believes Jesus is His Son. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved, and this accomplishes one of God’s greater purposes.

Are you contributing to the greater heavenly mosaic of God’s glorification? Your fulfillment of God’s purpose helps others do the same. Therefore, stay laser-focused on executing God’s purpose. Pray about it and seek the Scripture to better understand God’s purpose for you. Equity in eternity never diminishes, so invest a lot—and invest early. His purpose will be accomplished. Find out where He is working, and join Him to fulfill His mission.

“We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).

What greater purpose is God calling me to carry out in Jesus’s name?

Related Readings
Exodus 9:16; Job 42:2; Acts 13:36; Philippians 2:13


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

 

[Azriel]

Places of Refuge

I heard another voice from heaven say: “ ‘Come out of her, my people,’ so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues.”
REVELATION 18:4

My soul can easily go to places that lack real peace, protection, and refreshment. Worry lures me in, especially when I feel financial pressure at work or home. What if I lose my job? What if my friend doesn’t understand? What if my health fails and I can’t work long enough to care for my family? Like a confused dog, I chase my tail in circles with worry, and the outcome is dizziness and confusion. Worry is a weak refuge, but when I trust in God, I’m reminded that worry is a waste of time. He is the strong tower who casts shadows over our fears.

Self-reliance is another lure when times are hard. My soul resorts to hiding behind my hard work and determination rather than depending on my heavenly Father. Amid my frantic pace, I forget to go to God for His rest, wisdom, and resources. Unless I fight for an unhurried rhythm of work, I run right past my ever-present help—my heavenly Father. My energy alone leaves me exhausted and lonely, but the Lord’s refuge replenishes and revives me.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

Self-pity feels good in the moment, but it becomes an incubator for anger. We get mad and say to ourselves, “If only other people would see things my way, the world would be a much better place.” We feel sorry for ourselves because we believe no one really understands us. We are wise to remember it’s not about us, but God. Our refuge is in Him.

How is your soul? Does it feel like a hash-brown potato—scattered, smothered, or covered? Scattered because so many people are pulling on you? Smothered by your own unrealistic expectations? Or covered by Christ? Fortunately, in each moment of the day—no matter how loud and loony—by faith we can create a sanctuary for our soul. Close the office or bathroom door and close your eyes. Then look to the Lord in prayer. If you can take a walk, step outside, walk with our Savior, and be empowered by His presence. God’s refuge is always near.

“I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust’ ” (Psalm 91:2).
How can I, by faith, create a sanctuary for my soul to find rest and refuge in God?

Related Readings
Psalm 142:5; Isaiah 33:16; Jeremiah 16:19; Lamentations 3:57; Nahum 1:7


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

 

[Azriel]

Economic Storms

The merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her because no one buys their cargoes anymore.
REVELATION 18:11

Economic storms expose evil. When the ocean tide goes out, you are able to see what was previously underwater. Dead wood is swept away, never to be seen again. It may seem as though the wicked are prospering, but eventually they will be found out. The Holy Spirit shakes out sin so it can be seen and judged. As the Lord promised His children in the past, “I will shake the people of Israel… as grain is shaken in a sieve” (Amos 9:9). John describes a future worldwide economic meltdown where businesspeople stress out and panic, because there is no one to purchase their products and services.

Is your work based on godly principles that work to bring glory to Him and seek to serve others? Economic storms collapse businesses and ministries that are dependent on debt. Pride is purged when entities collapse, and all manner of excess is exposed. What really matters in life becomes the priority: faith, family, friends, food, and shelter. Storms reveal a shaky foundation of faithlessness or a solid foundation of faith.

“When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever” (Proverbs 10:25).

Moreover, those who cling to Christ are not shaken. He is our cornerstone, which no degree of chaos can challenge. The righteous cannot be moved because their Master is immovable. Therefore, stand firm in the Lord. “Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever” (Psalm 125:1).

Worldly wisdom has a way of reducing heaven’s wisdom to an afterthought. After using our worldly wisdom, we pray and try to discern the Lord’s ways—but only after our ways do not work. It is tempting to rely on what seems to work instead of asking what principles to live by based on God’s economy.

Furthermore, your stability in your Savior is security for your family, friends, and work associates. Your unwavering faith during difficult days offers them peace, encouragement, and conviction. Indeed, if all you have left is a firm foundation of faith, begin rebuilding God’s big vision. Are you a wise builder who perseveres through downturns or a foolish opportunist who is swept away by suffering?



“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew 7:24).

How can I build my life, home, and work on the solid rock of Jesus?

Related Readings
Job 20:5; Psalm 37:10; Acts 2:25; Hebrews 12:28


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

 

[Azriel]

Uncertainty of Wealth

In one hour such great wealth has been brought to ruin!
REVELATION 18:17


Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
1 TIMOTHY 6:17

If one thing is certain, it is the uncertainty of wealth. Riches can fluctuate like a terrifying roller coaster ride. My financial net worth could evaporate overnight, or it could incrementally deteriorate over time. Hope in wealth guarantees you sleepless nights and emotional fatigue. Why would I place my hope in money that migrates all over the map of life? Hope in money leads to false security and creates discontentment.

Yes, it is embarrassing to lose anything, especially money—but it can be replaced. Financial purging peels back our true intent and exposes the object of our affections. Do we love money, or do we love God? We can’t love both. Fortunately, hope in heaven is most certain. Christ is our reliable compass during a cash crisis. Jesus’s utmost desire is for you to toil for true riches.

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

True riches are contentment, trust in God, and generosity. Your passionate pursuit of true riches trumps worries over worldly wealth. Do your children and friends see you lamenting in prayer over the lost souls of men rather than the loss of money? What is the value of one person finding Jesus in a personal and growing relationship? Heavenly wealth compounds eternally with certain rewards, while worldly wealth depreciates and is destroyed.

Therefore, take this time of financial transition and place your affections and certainty in Christ (Colossians 3:1-4). Gently remind the fearful that fear of God and loving people are true riches. Money comes and goes, but Jesus remains faithful. Hope in Christ, not cash, brings contentment and the enjoyment of true wealth. You can be certain of this! No one regrets being generous in the moment, but sad are those who wait to give aggressively, only to experience the evaporation of their net worth. We can ever depend on our generous Savior Jesus!

“Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle” (Proverbs 23:5).
Where can I give a generous financial gift in order to cultivate my certain hope in heaven?

Related Readings
Psalm 42:5; Proverbs 3:9; Matthew 10:42; John 17:8


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

 

[Azriel]

Value Church

Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.
REVELATION 19:7

Why do we value church? We value church because God values church. The imagery He uses to illustrate its importance is stunning. It is the picture of a pure and prepared people approaching the Lord, as a bride ready to be received by her husband. The bride of Christ is the church, honored and loved deeply by Jesus. The church is made up of imperfect people, but Jesus will one day make His bride perfect “to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless” (Ephesians 5:27).

You may say, “I don’t need the church,” but to say this is also to say, “I don’t value Jesus’s relationships.” We automatically care for the spouse of a friend because we honor our friends’ relationships. In the same way, Christians who love the Lord also love His bride.

Furthermore, we need the church’s prayers, accountability, community, fellowship, friendships, teaching, and worship. Pride compels us to resist the church, but humility prompts us to engage with God’s people. Investing time and money in the church is investing in eternal rewards.

“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25).

The church needs you to engage enthusiastically. The community of God needs your wisdom, your mentoring, your energy, your Bible knowledge, your experience, your service, your financial gifts, and your influence. Involvement in church is a two-way street of giving and receiving. Mature followers of Jesus graduate from “sitting and soaking” to “serving and giving.” Church is a conduit for sharing Christ and growing in God’s grace. Church provides accountability to Almighty God.

Christ is ever building His church to overcome sin, Satan, sorrow, and death. Jesus said, “I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matthew 16:18). Do you value the church as Jesus values the church? Is church engagement a regular part of your routine? Meet God at church on Sunday to make Him known throughout the week.

“[The church] was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers” (Acts 9:31).
How can I support my local church with my time and money?

Related Readings
Isaiah 25:1-9; John 3:29; 1 Corinthians 14:26; 2 Corinthians 11:2


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

 

[Azriel]

An Angel of God

I saw an angel standing in the sun, who cried in a loud voice to all the birds flying in midair, “Come, gather together for the great supper of God.”
REVELATION 19:17

There is angelic activity in the unseen world of spiritual activity. These creations of God carry spiritual significance in your life, as they serve as God’s messengers and His protectors. Do you look for evidence of angelic work around you? Have you considered that Christ has created your circumstances for His greater purpose? We know Jesus had thousands of angels at His side waiting to engage the enemy: “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).

There are good and bad angels that vie for your attention. Once an angelic emissary presented itself to God, but Satan was in the mix: “One day the angels came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came with them” (Job 1:6). Demons seek to accuse and destroy you with lies, while angels from the Lord lace their language with truth and hope. What voice do you hear when you feel pressure and fear? God’s angel helped Joseph overcome his fears by assuring him that the Holy Spirit was the Creator of his circumstances.

“An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit’ ” (Matthew 1:20).

Angels offer confidence and security that Christ is in control. Take comfort in knowing that the enemy is being engaged on your behalf by a superior force and firepower. Use the Bible as your weapon of choice, and Satan and his demons will cringe and retreat at the sight of truth. Indeed, look out for and listen to the angelic voices in others.

Thank God for your guardian angels, but do not take them for granted or use them as an excuse for foolish behavior. “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways” (Psalm 91:11). Reckless living is not an excuse for the deployment of heavenly help. The devil attempted to lure Jesus into presuming on His heavenly Father’s favor during a time of weakness, but He resisted him with Scripture. Angels are at the Almighty’s disposal to come to your aid.

“Jesus said to him, ‘Away from me, Satan! For it is written: “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.”’ Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him” (Matthew 4:10-11).
Do I lean into the Lord, His Word, and angelic support when confronting Satan?

Related Readings
Genesis 19:15; Psalm 78:49; Matthew 13:49; Acts 23:8


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

 

[Azriel]

Destination of Evildoers

The beast was captured, and with it the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur.
REVELATION 19:20

The sun never sets on evil, and alarmingly, some people are as intent on evil actions as some are committed to good. Like roaches under the cloak of darkness, hideous human hearts are secretly hatching evil schemes. The worst kind of evil hides beneath the robe of religion. They blame their terrorist tirades on a god of their making. They worship an idol of violence at the altars of racism, anger, grudges, and hatred. These religious fanatics are deceived and delusional.

Satan smiles at acts of atrocity aimed at innocent people. When Satan convinces people to murder in the name of religion, he is executing a strategy for hell—sending people to hell for eternity and causing others to experience hell on earth. It is a hellish nightmare, the antithesis of true religion, and it is plaguing more and more of the modern world. Unfortunately, engineers of evil are engaged every day in the execution of evil acts. However, there is an unseen battle raging that is even more decisive—the battle for the souls of men and women.

“The LORD said to me, ‘Son of man, these are the men who are plotting evil and giving wicked advice in this city’ ” (Ezekiel 11:2).

A person who comes to Christ in confession and repentance does not condemn others who hold different beliefs. People who are in Christ have new weapons in their arsenal of faith. Hate gives way to love. Violence gives way to peace. Death gives way to life. Retaliation gives way to forgiveness. Prayer is the primary weapon in spiritual warfare. Our friends in the faith who suffer under the tyranny of terrorism need our constant prayer support.

Until evil is totally transformed by the grace of God, we have a giant opportunity to invest in eternity. We have the remedy for radical religion driven by evil intent—faith in Christ. Humbly and persistently we can present Jesus in our behavior and in our beliefs. He is the answer for atrocities hatched in hell. Heaven trumps hell when trust in Christ is preeminent. Pray every day for trust in Christ to triumph over tactics of terrorism. Pray for His kingdom to come.

“Mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy… having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people”
(2 Timothy 3:1-2,5).

What areas of my heart have anger or hurt that may be hindering my relationships?

Related Readings
Jeremiah 14:14; Ezekiel 13:9; Mark 13:22; 2 Peter 2:1


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