Pocket Thoughts - 9/25/26
In Revelation 8, seven angels prepare to sound seven trumpets. One by one, the first four trumpets blast. Each blast affects one-third of a particular aspect of nature. One-third of the vegetation of the earth is burned up. One-third of the seas turn to blood, killing one-third of the sea creatures and destroying one-third of the ships. One-third of the freshwater springs and rivers turn bitter, killing many people. One-third of the sun, moon, and stars turn dark. The blowing of each trumpet sounds the alarm that the full expression of God’s justified anger against sin is about to be unleashed. But why do His judgments in this passage only affect one-third instead of all? Even in God’s perfect execution of justice, He extends mercy and grace to those who heed His warnings and turn from their rebellious, evil ways. His heart is for salvation and mercy – until time runs out. God is calling for repentance while there’s still opportunity. His judgment against sin is to be taken seriously. Call on His mercy today. It’s available to anyone who believes that His Son Jesus has already taken the penalty of God’s justice on the cross and has won the victory over death that we could never win ourselves. “Perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.” (1 John 4:18a) The fear of punishment is conquered by trusting Jesus and His perfect love for you.
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Father, Your justice is nothing to trifle with. It’s real, and it’s coming. Thank You for loving everyone created in Your image enough to hold back time until all have the opportunity to turn away from their sin and run into Your arms of love and forgiveness. We grieve for those who reject You. Give us love and boldness to declare the truth about us and our sin, the truth about You and Your justice and grace, and the hope we have in Jesus. Thank You for the mercy that awaits the repentant and the eternity with You that awaits those who love Your Son. Holy Spirit, stir hearts, and stir in us a passion to “fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel” (Ephesians 6:19), as the apostles so boldly proclaimed in the days of the early church. Revive us, Lord. In Jesus’ beautiful Name, amen.
