Pastor Bob DuPar
December 25, 2008

Journal Entry



Scripture

Zechariah 8:1-23; Revelation 16:1-21; Psalm 144:1-15; Proverbs 30:29-31

Observation

I was struck by the fact that those who experience God’s wrath during the end times still refuse to repent and turn to God. Revelation 16:9 says, “They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify God.” And, the end of 16:11says, “…but they refused to repent of what they had done.” It’s unfortunate that God’s punishment solidifies the stubborn rebelliousness of the unbelieving. One would hope that these end time events would break through any residual shred of disbelief and provide an opportunity for redemption.

“Behold, I come like a thief! Blessed is he who stays awake and keeps his clothes with him, so that he may not go naked and be shamefully exposed.”
Revelation 16:15

Application

This passage in Revelation adds new perspective to Hebrews 4:7b,

“Today if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.”

Hebrews 3:12-13 is also pertinent with respect to our reading in Revelation:

“Take care, brethren, lest there should be in any one of you and evil, unbelieving heart, in falling away from the living God. But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called ‘Today,’ lest any one of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”
All I can say about Revelation 16:15 is that the Apostle John definitely seems to be recommending that people sleep clothed!

Prayer

“Lord, thank You once again for the blessing of family and extended family who know You and have a saving relationship with You. Help me to spend my time pointing others to the hope and salvation which is only found in You.”