ELIPHAZ CONTINUES WITH JOB JOB 5 NIV

JOB 5   NIV
ELIPHAZ CONTINUES TALKING TO JOB

  1) Call if you will, but who will answer you?  To which of the holy ones will you turn?

  2) Resentment kills a fool, and envy slays the simple.  3) I myself have seen a fool taking root, but suddenly his house was cursed.  4) His children are far from safety, crushed in court without a defender.

  5) The hungry consume his harvest, taking it even from among thorns, and the thirsty pant after his wealth.  6) For hardship does not spring from the soil, nor does trouble sprout from the ground.  7) Yet man is born to trouble as surely as sparks fly upward.
    

   8) But if it were I, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before Him.  9) He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot  be counted.  10) He provides rain on the earth; He sends water upon the countryside. 

  11) The lowly He sets on high, and those who mourn are lifted to safety.  12) He thwarts the plans of the crafty, so that their hands achieve no success.  13) He catches the wise in their craftiness, and the schemes of the wily are swept away. 14)  Darkness comes upon them in the daytime; at noon they grope as in the night.

 15) He saves the needy from the sword in their mouth; He saves them from the clutches of the powerful, 16) So the poor have hope, and injustice shuts its mouth.

  17) Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty.  18) For He wounds, but He also binds up; He injures, but His hands also heal.  19) From six calamities He will rescue you in seven no harm will befall you.  20) In famine He will ransom you from death, and in battle from the stroke of the sword. 

   21) You will be protected from the lash of the tongue, and need not fear when destruction comes.  22) You will laugh at destruction and famine, and need not fear the beasts of the earth.

   23) For you will have a covenant with the stones of the field, and the wild animals will be at peace with you.  24) You will know that your tent is secure, you will take stock of your property and find nothing missing.  25) You will know that your children will be many, and your descendants like the grass of the earth.  26) You will come to the  grave in full vigor, like sheaves gathered in season. 

   27) We have examined this, and it is true.  So hear it and apply it to yourself.

COMMENTARY

  Eliphaz's purpose is to offer theological comfort and counsel to Job but instead he wounds him with false accusation.

LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE COMMENTARY  NIV

   All three of Job's friends made the mistake of assuming that Job had committed some great sin that had caused his suffering.  Neither they nor Job knew of Satan's conversation with God.  It is human nature to blame people for their own troubles, but Job's story makes it clear that blame cannot always be attached to those whom trouble strikes.

   Eliphaz's words show a view of discipline that has been almost forgotten:  Pain can help us grow.  These are good words to remember when we face hardships and loss.  Because Job did not understand why he suffered, his faith in God had a chance to grow.  On the other hand, we must not make Eliphaz's mistake.  God does not eliminate all hardship when we are following Him closely, and good behavior is not always rewarded by prosperity.  Rewards for good and punishment for evil are in God's hands and given out according to His timetable.  Satan's ploy is to get us to doubt God's goodwill toward us.  Keep in mind what the angels proclaimed when Jesus was born:  "Peace on earth; goodwill toward man."

   If you would like to have a personal relationship with my LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ, please click here to find out how:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html

MY THOUGHTS

  In nursing, we say pain is the body's way of telling you there is something wrong.  Spiritually, pain may be the soul's way of saying there is something wrong.  We may need to evaluate our hearts and ask God to show us where we are coming up short.

   If we know we are living in God's will, let us praise Him and ask Him to carry us through.


   You are encouraged to leave us a comment with your thoughts and are encouraged to share our posts on your favorite social media if we have been a blessing to you.

  

JOB 1: 18-22

JOB 1: 18-22

While the third messenger was reporting disaster to Job, yet another messenger came and said, "Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother's house, when suddenly a might wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house.  It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!"

photo courtesy of The Alabama Baptist.org

At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head.  Then he fell to the ground in worship and said:
"Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart.
The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away.
May the name of the Lord be praised."
In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.  Job 1: 18-22 (NIV)

PRAISE GOD IN ALL THINGS

How overwhelming all of this news must have been.  I can't imagine person after person coming to me to inform me of one disaster that has occurred to me after another.  Then, to have all of his children killed at once, what a loss!  At least, a loss in this life.  Job, however, had sacrificed to God for the possible sins of his children, so his children were righteous in the site of God.  Bottom line is that Job did not loose his children, even though they were killed and he will miss them every second of every day.  Job will actually be reunited with his children in Heaven when he dies.  Job knew that ALL he had acquired in this life was due to God.  We are stewards of the possessions we have, we OWN nothing. 

LAY UP TREASURES

Today we have earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, and all sorts of natural disasters.  The news reports are always telling of some evil people who kidnap, torture, and/or kill other people.  What Job went through in one day was horrible.  We see that Satan is responsible for perpetuating all kind of evil.  He continues his evil today.   It is up to us to accept responsibility for righteous living and for praising God for Who He is constantly, in good times as well as bad times.  Blessed be the name of The Lord.  Amen.  In today's political and financial economy, we need to store up treasures in Heaven that "will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys."  Luke 12:33  (NIV)


When disaster strikes, when we suffer a loss, we who know Almighty God lean on Him for strength and comfort.  He surrounds us with people to lift us up and carry us.  Do you know Him?  Are you washed in the soul cleansing blood of Jesus Christ?   To know more, click this link:   http://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.  We come to Jesus with nothing more than we had when we were born and He gives us rest, comfort, love, strength; He gives us everything!  Amen!

REVELATION 16: 10 - 21 (PART 2 of 2)

REVELATION 16:  10 - 21

PART 2 of 2

photo courtesy of alfa-img.com

    10) And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain,

   11) And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds.  

   12) And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared.

   13) And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.

   14) For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.

   15) Behold, I come as a thief.  Blessed is he that watches and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.

   16) And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon.

   17) And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done.

   18) And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great.

   19) And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell:  and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath.

   20) And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found.

   21) And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent (in New Testament times, that is the current equivalent of 58.9 kg or 129 lb, 14 oz.).:  and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great.   King James Version (KJV) Public Domain

COMMENTARY

   Keeping in mind that the whole world is being hit with the hottest, brightest sun ever, there is no escape from the heat.  (Obviously, a certain former Vice-Presidential candidate has read and understood the Book of Revelation.) Satan's temple throne is where the darkness begins and spreads to his entire royal city.  He and his administration is plunged into darkness with no reprieve.

  People everywhere is cursing God for their discomfort.  They have rights, after all!  They are prideful, deciding they can take care of themselves and don't need God for anything.  But He is a holy and just God. Satan is powerless against Him, but still those who worship Satan can't see that fact.

   There is no doubt that Babylon's power supply will depend on The Euphrates River.   This river will be the source of its (treated) drinking water and other personal uses, but also it's cooling water for generating plants; water for air-conditioning systems and industrial processes, and for a multitude of other essential operations.  So, the river will dry up.  The snow cap on Mount Ararat which feeds the Euphrates River will melt permanently due to all of the plagues that have been poured out on the earth.    It may be this time when Noah's Ark will finally been located, a testimony of God's truth and His sovereign judgment.

   Unclean spirits will have so much control over people's minds.  They will use their strength and intellect, even perform miracles, to persuade kings and presidents to go to war.  see Joel 3: 9 - 12.

   As the world is preparing to go to war against God at Armageddon, God sends a special word of encouragement to those Believers who remain on earth.  He has been protecting and caring for them and wants them to know He will take care of them through the coming war.  Speaking of which, the war will probably be waged via horseback, on camels, and other animals since the waterways are obviously not available for the transportation of arms and vehicles.

   Understand this:  Jerusalem will be invaded and half of the city will be taken captive.  Zechariah 12: 2, Isaiah 10: 28 - 31.  But then, God shows up:  Zechariah 14: 3.

  The hail is actually stone or other material that weighs at least a hundred pounds each.  The greatest earthquake, erupting volcanoes, comets and other heavenly bodies, the International space station, satellites, etc. there are many things to fall upon the earth and they will especially fall on those gathered at Armageddon to fight God.

   Then the final earthquake. The topography of the earth will finally be as it was in the antediluvian world (before the great flood).  Mountains will fall and valleys will rise.

   Jerusalem will be divided into three parts and a great artesian spring will open up from Mount Zion and fill the Dead Sea and possibly the Mediterranean Sea with water....life-giving water.  (Isaiah 40: 4 , 5)


   Dear friend, please consider all you have read about this tribulation that will soon be visited upon the earth.  Today is the day for salvation.  Click on this link to learn more: https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.



   You are encouraged to leave a comment if this ministry is a blessing to you, and pray for us, that God will use this ministry for His glory.  You are also encouraged to share this post on your favorite social ministry.  Thank you 
 
  

REVELATION 16 (PART 1 of 2)

REVELATION 16
PART 1 of 2

SEVEN VIALS

photo courtesy of alfa-img.com

   1) And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.

   2) And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which worshiped his image.

   3) And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man:  and every living soul died in the sea.

   4) And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of waters; and they became blood.

   5) And I heard the angel of the waters say, Thou are righteous, O Lord, which art, and wast, and shalt be, because thou hast judged thus.

   6) For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given them blood to drink; for they are worthy. 

   7) And I heard another out of the altar say, Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are Thy judgments.

   8) And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and power was given unto him to scorch men with fire.

   9) And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the Name of God, Which hath power over these plagues:  and they repented not to give Him glory.  King James Version (KJV) Public Domain

COMMENTARY

   The plagues, calamities that have been bombarding the earth since the rapture have been God trying to convict and convert people's hearts.  Some have refused the mark of the beast and have been caught and executed; others have run for their lives.  But commodities are scarce and no one can buy or sell without the mark of the beast.  Now, the final judgments are no longer a call to repentance, but they are a pure expression of the vengeance of a holy God.

     Jesus gives the command to begin the final purge of evil, of human rebellion, from the earth.  Too long He has knocked on the door of our hearts only to be turned aside.  Everyone who received the mark of the beast is affected by the first plague.

   The second trumpet, you remember, affected a third of the sea and a third of sea creatures.  Here, the entire sea will be affected and all it's creatures will die.  The rivers and fountains became blood but it may be that the inhabitants can drink this (see verse 6) even though it will be bitter and repulsive.

   Then we get the real "global warming", in that the sun's heat will intensify.  (See also, Malachi 4:1)  Now, really, can you imagine the stench from all the hot "blood" in all of the waterways?



  Have you accepted the life saving gift of salvation or do you believe in a holy God?  Click on the following link for the "Pathway to Salvation": https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html

   You are encouraged to "like" and "share" this post on your social media and to leave a comment here with your thoughts.  We would love to hear from you.  Above all, please pray for this ministry, that God will use our efforts for His glory and souls will be saved.  Thank you.

REVELATION 15

REVELATION 15

SEVEN PLAGUES

image courtesy of Alfa-img.com

   1) And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.

   2) And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire:  and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.

   3) And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints.

   4) Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name?  for Thou only art holy:  for all nations shall come and worship before Thee; for Thy judgments are made manifest.

   5) And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened:

   6) And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.

   7) And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, Who liveth for ever and ever.

   8) And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from His power; and no man was to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.  King James Version (KJV) Public Domain

COMMENTARY

   The sea of glass represents all of the times God has delivered His people from evil:  when Moses led his people out of Egypt, when Noah was saved from destruction when God judged the world by water, and let us not overlook baptism.  The fire represents judgment.

   Verse 5:  the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven is the place where the original 10 Commandments are, which were written by God Himself and given to Moses to instruct God's chosen people.  This is the law.  Those who deny Christ are living under the law.  However, go back in history to when Jesus was crucified, the vale was rent from top to bottom, (Matthew 27:51) opening the way for all who believe on Him to have full access to The Most High God.  Praise His Holy Name!  That is what John sees here:  the innermost area of the earthly tabernacle, the Holiest of all, was not accessible to the people or the priests....only to the high priest once a year.  Now, it is open to all who believe!  (Hebrews 10: 19 - 22)  Ah, but wait until verse 8.

   And the angels came out of that heavenly temple clothed in pure and white linen, which speaks of righteousness.  The golden girdles speak of riches and beauty.  They emerged with the seven plagues; then one of the four beasts around the throne gives each angel a golden vial FULL of the wrath of God.  This time, God will hold nothing back; those who rejected our God will be hit with the full wrath of our holy and just God!

   In verse 8, we see the "Shekinah" glory of God and His power filling the temple.  God's glory is at stake; His righteousness demands the punishment of iniquity.  He does not apologize for dealing thus with unrighteousness, nor do His servants need to apologize for Him.  Everyone who has heard the message of The Gospel should understand Who God is and what their future is without Him!  Who can withstand the full impact of God's wrath?  Who would elect to place themselves in that position?  I'll tell you "who":  those who reject salvation through the blood of Jesus, that's who!

   Dear friend, please consider all you have read about this tribulation that will soon be visited upon the earth.  Today is the day for salvation.  Click on this link to learn more: https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.



   You are encouraged to leave a comment if this ministry is a blessing to you and please pray for us, that God will use our efforts of this ministry for His glory.  You are also encouraged to share this post on your favorite social ministry.  Thank you

REVELATION 14 PART 2 of 2

REVELATION 14

PART 2 of 2

VERSES 13 - 20

photo of a sickle

   13) And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth:  Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.

   14) And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud One sat like unto the Son of man, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle.

   15) And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to Him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in Thy sickle, and reap:  for the time is come for Thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe.

   16) And He that sat on the cloud thrust in His sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.

   17) And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle.

   18) And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe.

   19) And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God.

20) And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horsed bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs.  King James Version (KJV) Public Domain

COMMENTARY

   This is the worst period in history for Christians.  Those who refuse to take the mark of the Beast will be killed....period.  But The Holy Spirit speaks from heaven with a blessing for them.  1 Corinthians 3: 8 states that every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour  (not the fruit of our labour).

   Then John sees Jesus coming on a cloud, sickle in hand (to judge) and a crown on His head (to reign).  The harvest on the earth is ripe (with wickedness).

   The sickle is used for two "harvestings":  the first is of grain which likely refers to the judgment of all the earth.  This angel (the fourth angel) comes out of the earthly temple asking Jesus to gather the "wheat" (those who have accepted Jesus, even to their death).  Jesus, thus, gathers His children.

   The next angel comes out of the heavenly temple with a sharp sickle.  The last angel comes out of the altar and has power over fire and instructs the fifth angel to gather the clusters of the vine of the earth (those who rejected Jesus).  That cluster is placed in the winepress (at Armageddon).

   Dear friend, now is the time to choose how you will spend eternity.  Please consider this Book of Revelation and choose wisely, choose the gift of salvation.  Please click here:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

 You are encouraged to click on the comment tab and leave us a message if our efforts in publishing this blog are a blessing to you.  We also encourage you to share this post on your favorite social media.  Thank you.

REVELATION 14 PART 1 of 2

REVELATION 14
VERSES 1 - 12
BABYLON IS FALLEN

   1) And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with Him an hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father's Name written in their foreheads.

   2) And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder:  and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps:

   3) And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders:  and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.

   4) These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins.  These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.  These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb.

   5) And in their mouth was found no guile:  for they are without fault before the throne of God.

   6) And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,

   7) Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come:  and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

   8) And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.

   9) And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand,

   10) The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:

   11) And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever:  and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.

   12) Here is the patience of the saints:  here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.   King James Version (KJV) Public Domain

  

COMMENTARY

   We are first given the vision of the 144,000 who had come through the tribulation standing victorious on Mount Zion with Jesus in their midst.  Then, we hear and see the singing of a new song around the throne of God; a new song "uniquely appropriate to the unique experiences of this unique body of 144,000 dedicated Christian witnesses", as Dr. Henry M. Morris worded it.

   These witnesses were not only "sealed" by God, but also prepared; they follow the commands of God, with single-mindedness, being disobedient in NOTHING.

   Now, let us look a little closer to verse 5:  "And in their mouth was found no guile".  When the Apostle Peter talked about Jesus in 1 Peter 2:22, he said, "Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth".  So, in James 3: 2, we read that  "Anyone who is never at fault in what they say (has no guile in their mouth) is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check".  Let me confess right here, I am not perfect.

   Our attention is turned back to the earth, with angels visible to the earth dwellers, witnessing to them in all languages, loudly enough that all can hear, proclaiming the everlasting gospel.  Understand, that these people have had three and a half years listening to the two witnesses.  People know that there is a battle for their souls.  God continues to offer His grace.  The angel wants to first proclaim that God created the earth and all that is in it, as well as the heaven, etc.  Surely since He created all things, He owns it!  Satan, therefore, is doomed!

   The next angel follows the first proclaiming that Babylon is destroyed.  (Babylon has not physically been destroyed yet but it's destruction is imminent, so the angel is stating fact yet to come.  see Revelation 18)

   The third angel warns against fearing Satan's threat of death if they do not take his mark on them, but warns to fear God if they do.

   Verse 12 is encouragement to all who believe on Jesus, all who have been patiently awaiting for God to set things right; to all who have both kept the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.  Faith without works is dead; and works without faith is dead.  Lamentations 3:  22, 23:  It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.  They are new every morning:  Great is Thy faithfulness!  (KJV)

    Friend, now is the time to make your eternal decision.  Don't wait until the rapture.  We are not promised tomorrow.  Click on this link to assist you in your decision:    https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html  



You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts or words of encouragement to us if this ministry is a blessing to you.  And please share us on your favorite social media.  Thank you.

REVELATION 13 PART 2 OF 2

REVELATION 13   PART 2 OF 2

VERSES 10 - 18
666

  10) He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity:  he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword.  Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.

   11) And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.

   12) And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.

   13) And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men,

   14) And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.

   15) And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.

   16) And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:

   17) And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

   18) Here is wisdom.  Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast:  for it is the number of a man; and his number is six hundred threescore and six.  King James Version (KJV) public domain

COMMENTARY

   Verse 10 is a word of encouragement from our Lord.  The dispensation of grace has ended and we revert back to "an eye for an eye" principle of the Old Testament.  The tribulation saints rests their patience and faith and confidence in this promise:  that vengeance belongs to The Lord.

   This second beast, as we will see later in Revelation, is the false prophet of the Antichrist.  He is a miracle-working religious leader.  This utterly breaks my heart.  I have loved ones who reject Jesus as some fairy tale, a myth.  They say only fools believe in such nonsense.  But the time is quickly coming when they have to choose to which "fairy tale" they will bow.  It is my prayer that they will choose wisely.

   "The lamb with two horns speaking as a dragon"; haven't we seen this sort of behavior in our elected officials in government?  They promise one thing then vote just the opposite?  They don't listen to us!  Well, this "prophet" will speak sweet words and pretend to love but he is hiding a heart of stone.

   Verse 15 must be talking about demon possession of the statue, just as "legion" possessed the swine when Jesus exorcised them, even though they didn't live long thereafter.  (Matthew 8: 28 - 34)

   The "mark of the beast" has been discussed from days of old.  This mark will be voluntary.  This is the ultimate rejection of God.  When this mark is received, the soul is lost for eternity; not receiving this mark makes them totally dependent on God for their survival in an active way.

   Verse 18 is for the saints who are watching for The Lord's return.  This beast will probably gain much religious prominence before the rapture.  Therefore, we will be cautious about believing anything he says (much as we don't believe what the news media reports today).

If this ministry is a blessing to you, we encourage you to share on your social media and to leave your thoughts in a comment on this site.  We would love to hear from you.   And above all, pray for us, that God will use this ministry for His glory.  Thank you.

Don't you want to be counted with the saints?  Click here for more information on how you can be:    https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html

REVELATION 12 PART 2 VERSES 7 - 17

REVELATION 12 - PART 2

VERSES 7 - 17
WAR IN HEAVEN

artwork by Pat Marvenko Smith courtesy of www.revelationillustrated.com

   7) And there was war in heaven:  Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,

   8) And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven.

   9) And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world:  he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

   10) And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ:  for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

   11) And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

   12) Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them.  Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time. 

   13) And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.

   14) And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.

   15) And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood.

   16) And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth.

   17) And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

COMMENTARY

   In the Holy Bible, I can identify three heavens:  the atmosphere, outer space, and the dwelling place of The Most High God.  We know Satan has access to the dwelling place of God, because he accuses The Brethren before God.  We also know Satan has access to the atmosphere because he "seeks and destroys" those whom he can.  So, we can conclude that he also has access to outer space.

   Keeping in mind that the Book of Revelation was not written in chronological order, I cannot say when the war in heaven takes place; whether at the beginning of the tribulation, the middle, or some other time.  It makes sense that it occurred at the beginning, though, when Satan realized that all of the saints were raptured.  Since the Archangel Michael encountered some of the fallen angels in the time of Daniel, you have to see where the raptured church will also encounter them, which has to trigger a war, don't you think?  It also makes sense that it would occur in the middle of the tribulation, so take your pick when you want to believe it occurred. 

   But Satan and his angels are no match for Michael and his army.  When Satan is cast out of heaven permanently, he will act out severely, as he realizes his time is drawing to an end.  God has given him thousands of years to test His people, and he may have been delusional enough to think he could prevail.  But alas, he is but a created being; God is The Creator.

   But God will protect those whom He has sealed.  The time of the Gentiles is past and the Jew is grafted back into the olive tree.

   Let me say before I close this commentary, that Russia will invade Israel and be defeated, which will give rise to the western alliance (NATO and the Common Market) into a state of world preeminence.  The leader of this alliance will make a seven year treaty with Israel after Russia's defeat but he will break it midway.  This leader is the antichrist, the Beast, who receives his power from the dragon, Satan.

    Friends, I tell you:  You don't want to be on the earth or on the sea when Satan is cast out of heaven.  Don't wait another day to accept the gift of salvation from Jesus Christ.  Click on this link:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html  



You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts or words of encouragement to us if this ministry is a blessing to you and to share this post via your favorite social media, that your friends may also be blessed.  Thank you.

THE RAPTURE OF THE CHURCH

THE RAPTURE OF THE CHURCH

Image courtesy Pat Marvenko Smith via Flickr Creative Commons.

   From my youth I have known about the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for The Faithful.  I have been told that the generation born when Israel was reborn will not pass away before the rapture of the Church.  But are you aware that not all church leaders believe this?  Are you aware that those who do believe there will be a rapture don't all agree on when it will take place regarding the tribulation?  The following is how I understand it:

   This is the parable of the fig tree found in Luke 21: 32) Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:  33) So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near even at the doors.  34) Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.  35) Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

   There are four trees mentioned in the Book of Judges (in the parable of Jotham).  The fig tree is a symbol of Israel in Scripture.  The olive tree speaks of Israel in covenant relationship with God.  Abraham is the root and the branches are his descendants after the flesh and after the Spirit.  (The Gentiles are the wild branches grafted into the olive tree.   Jesus is the vine and we are the branches - reference John 15:5.)   Then there is the bramble tree, which is Israel away from God; instead of a blessing to the world as God intended Israel to be, She was a curse.

   The Jews had been scattered throughout the world for more than 2000 years when Theodore Hertzl accomplished his goal of strengthening the Jewish national sentiment and national consciousness in 1897 at the first Zionist Congress, which he arranged (the first budding of the fig tree).  Then, by 1917 came The Balfour Declaration, which stated that the British were in agreement of establishing The Jew in the area called "Palestine".   In Genesis 6, God told Noah that "My Spirit shall not always strive with man forever, because he also is flesh; nevertheless, his days shall be 120 years."  So, when we add 120 years to 1897, we come up with 2017.

   Now, let us again look at verse 34 again:  "Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled."  In Psalm 90:10, we learn that a generation is 70 years; 80 at the most.  So, this generation, which is alive when Israel is re-established in The Promised Land (1948), shall not pass away before Jesus comes back for His Bride.

  In Matthew 24, Jesus states:  36) But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.  37) But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be."

   When we dissect this statement, we understand that God gave the people warnings, also, as to when He would destroy that wicked generation of Noah's day:  1) Noah's grandfather was Methuselah.  The meaning of the name "Methuselah" means "when he dies, it will be sent".  He died the year OF the flood, but before it began.

   2) Noah spent 120 years building the ark.  He built it in public where all could see. ((Here is that 120 years again.)  Everyone could see when it was near completion and when he was boarding the animals.  Noah told all who would listen to him what he was doing and why.  They were too busy on their smart phones and their watching videos to pay much attention.  They laughed at him.  They didn't invest the time to study and listen to what God had to say.  They had all the opportunity to repent and turn from their wicked ways.  But alas, they were destroyed by God via the flood.  They may not have known the day or the hour when God would shut the door of the ark, but they could certainly see the time was at hand.

   3) Also, let us see in Matthew 24,verse 39 that the Son of man is the event being looked for here, not the Son of The Living God.  This refers to the rapture, not the setting up of the New Jerusalem.  Verse 41 confirms this as "Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left." 

  Looking in 1 Corinthians 15, beginning with verse 51:  Listen, I tell you a mystery:  We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed--52) in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.  For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.  53) For the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true:  "Death has been swallowed up in victory.
55) Where, O death, is your victory?
   Where, O death, is your sting?
56) The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.  57) But thanks be to God!  He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.  58) Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm.  Let nothing move you.  Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."

   Finally, in 1Thessalonians 4, beginning in verse 13, we read:  "But we would not have you ignorant, brethren, concerning them that fall asleep (die); that ye sorrow not even as the rest, who have no hope.  14) For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also that are fallen asleep in Jesus will God bring with Him.  15) For this we say unto you by The Word of The Lord, that we that are alive, that are left unto the coming of The Lord, shall in no wise precede them that are fallen asleep.  16) For The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven, with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God:  and the dead in Christ shall rise first; 17) then we that are alive, that are left, shall together with them be caught up in the clouds, to meet The Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with The Lord.  18) Wherefore comfort one another with these words."....

   So, I can spread the word that I am preparing for the rapture.  I can ask my insurance agent about the pay out of my life insurance when I "disappear".  Yes, I carry life insurance, because I am "not guaranteed tomorrow".  I can tell the tax clerk that I will not be protesting my taxes next year because I am looking to be raptured.  I can talk to everybody I see about the rapture.  Whether it is today or tomorrow, who cares?  It is so close!  There is an urgency about this message!  I am busy about my Father's business!

   What about you?  Have you accepted the life saving gift of salvation or do you even believe in God?  Click on the following link for the "Pathway to Salvation": https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html

   You are encouraged to "like" and "share" this post on your social media and to leave a comment here with your thoughts.  We would love to hear from you.

REVELATION 12 PART 1: VERSES 1 - 6

REVELATION 12  PART 1
VERSES 1 - 6



photo courtesy of watchfortheday.org

   1) And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:  

   2) And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.

   3) And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.

   4) And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth:  and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.

   5) And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron:  and her child was caught up unto God, and to His throne.

   6) And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days.   King James Version (KJV), Public Domain

   

COMMENTARY

   The commentaries agree that this chapter of Revelation is to interpreted symbolically, as the Apostle John describes a "great wonder "(or sign).  

   1) We go all the way back to Genesis 3:15 to God's prediction in the Garden of Eden of the age-long conflict of Satan and God's only begotten Son.  The woman is to be understood as the whole body of believers from the beginning of creation.  We are clothed in "the light of the world", Jesus Christ.  The "moon under her feet" is the counterfeit light, or the followers of the Antichrist. The 12 stars on her crown represent the 12 tribes of Judah, or the 12 Apostles, or both.

   2) Every woman throughout time has "travailed" in childbirth, but this entire creation has "travailed" since Adam to return to the original intent of God concerning His creation.  Even more so now, as we await the rapture, we see the climax coming when we shall be delivered.

   Here is an interesting read about the wonder in heaven of this woman clothed with the sun that I found at a website, Signs of the End - A Discovery of Biblical Timelines: 
http://www.watchfortheday.org/1260tetrad.html.   My take-away from this is that God continues to communicate with us whether we study His Word or not!  I love to study His Word.

   3) The seven heads with seven crowns are seven kingdoms of the past.  The ten horns are ten kings of the end times.  We will learn more of this in Chapter 17.

   4) We are not told on which day of creation God created the angels.  We are told when He created man and He declared it was good.  We are not told when the rebellious angels were cast out of heaven.  When Satan was banished from his position in heaven, he took one third of the angels God had created.  We know angels do not procreate.  Satan had been cast out of heaven before Eve sinned in The Garden of Eden and has been working to thwart God's plan of salvation ever since.  

   Satan still has access to heaven, but heaven is not his home.  He is the accuser of the saints to God, so he continues to be allowed an audience with God.  Contrarily, this world is not my home; my home is in heaven with the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob!

 

   5) The man child obviously symbolizes Jesus Christ, but can also include all of those who believe on Him.  The "catching away" also speaks of Jesus AND the believers during the rapture and must also include the Two Witnesses

   6) This verse refers to the second half of the tribulation.  Now, follow this:  the woman represents God's people, who through time, begat Jesus AND His Church; but at this time, the sign refers to Israel.  Jesus had spoken in perfect English (I jest) in Matthew 24: 15 - 21, that when you see the abomination of desolation you are to flee to the mountains.  There have been 144,000 sealed by God and He will protect them, have no doubt!


Do you know where you will spend eternity?  Click here for more information on the need for salvation and what you can do for it:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html

You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts or words of encouragement to us if this ministry is a blessing to you; and please pray for this ministry that our LORD will use us for His glory.

You are also welcome to share this post on your favorite social media, because you never know who will be helped by reading it.  Thank you.

REVELATION 13 PART 1 OF 2

REVELATION 13  PART 1

The Beast of the Sea (Tapestry of the Apocalypse) courtesy of 

Kimon Berlin, user:Gribeco - Unknown (and Wikipedia)

   1) And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.

   2) And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion:  and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.

   3) And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed:  and all the world wondered after the beast.

   4) And they worshiped the dragon which gave power unto the beast:  and they worshiped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast?  who is able to make war with him?

   5) And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.

   6) And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, and His tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.

   7) And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them:  and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

   8) And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of The Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

   9) If any man have an ear, let him hear.  King James Version (KJV) Public Domain

COMMENTARY

   We continue speaking in symbols here in Chapter 13.  Note this is a "beast", not a "dragon".  So, this is a man.  The "sea" in Scripture, refers to the Mediterranean Sea.  John describes some strange hybrid land mammal rather than a reptile, so we understand that he is referring to a powerful personage emerging from the peoples of the Mediterranean lands.  See Daniel 7.  Keep in mind, that Revelation is not written in chronological order.  This beast has already conquered many countries without firing a shot, so the description of this leopard as a lion and bear may indicate some of the powers he has already conquered.  We will discuss this further in chapter 17.

   Daniel spoke of seven heads, or kingdoms.  Apparently, one of those seven kingdoms will be revived in the last days.

   The beast has already ascended out of  "the abyss" and put an end to the two witnesses.  He will receive a wound as unto death, but he will also be revived and all the world will be enthralled with him.  Satan (the dragon) gives him authority.  Satan gives the Beast great pronouncements to make to all the world, such as that God's end is drawing near, which would release all mankind from His restraints to pursue whatever pleasure they so desired.  They will believe his lies and exalt him.

   And of course, the Beast makes war with all who believe in The Most High God, rather than himself.  He will seek to destroy Jew and Gentile, as many of them may actually accept Jesus as their personal savior after the rapture.

   "If any man have an ear, let him hear.  The Apostle John has repeated this many times in the Book of Revelation.  How about you?  If you have an ear, then hear this....make a decision to accept Jesus BEFORE all these things take place.  Run to the One Who loves you so much and has prepared a place for you for eternity.  Please click here:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.  You are encouraged to click on the comment tab and leave us a message if our efforts in publishing this blog are a blessing to you.

REVELATION 11 PART 2 of 3 VERSES 7 - 14

REVELATION 11  PART 2 of 3
VERSES 7 - 14

photo courtesy of heart2heart.blogspot.com

 

   7) And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascended out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.

   8) And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.

   9) And they of the people and kindred and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves.

   10) And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.

   11) And after three days and an half the spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and a great fear fell upon them which saw them.

   12) And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.

   13) And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand:  and the remnant were frightened, and gave glory to the God of heaven.

   14) The second woe is past; and , behold, the third woe comes quickly.

 

COMMENTARY

     This is the first mention of the beast in Revelation.  He has been increasing his authority and gaining control over much of the world (due to the power given him by the great dragon) in spite of the plagues these witnesses have called down upon him.  This scenario coincides with Chapter 6, when the plague of the "horsemen" is released.  The beast has dispatched armies to try to conquer them and they are miraculously annihilated AND these witnesses are also slain.

   It appears that we will have more to learn about this beast in Chapter 13.
 
   So, now the demonic horsemen and the witnesses are destroyed.  It is a time of celebration!  Party on!  Their lifeless bodies lie openly in the street as a testimony of the power of the beast.

  The three and a half days they lie in the streets, symbolically, signifies the three and a half years, or the first half of the seven year tribulation.  (Jesus Christ was also raised on the third day.)  Then, while the satellites are beaming the image of the dead witnesses, they come back to life!  Can you even begin to imagine the stark terror of those watching? It went from massive celebration to panic in 3, 2, 1!

   Not only had the witnesses come back to life, but they were audibly called up to the clouds as the world watched them go.  To put that exclamation point behind this event, the God of Heaven sent a great earthquake to the earth (and, I'll bet, to the hearts of men)!

   The second woe is past; and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly.


   Dear friend, please heed this warning.  Please accept the priceless gift of salvation before you will have to go through all of the tribulation.  "I got The Kingdom, He took the cross."  Is that the most astonishing deal ever made?  Click here for more information:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

If this ministry is a blessing to you, we encourage you to leave your thoughts in a comment.  We would love to hear from you.  Please also pray for us, that God will use this ministry for His glory.  

You are welcome to share this post on your favorite social media if you know are friends with any one who would benefit from hearing about Jesus.  Thank you.
  

REVELATION 11 PART 3 of 3

REVELATION 11  PART 3 OF 3

VERSES 15 - 19

15) And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He shall reign for ever and ever.

   16) And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God,

   17) Saying, We give Thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, Which art, and wast, and art to come; because Thou hast taken to Thee Thy great power, and hast reigned.

   18) And the nations were angry, and Thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that Thou shouldest give reward unto Thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear Thy Name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.

   19) And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in His temple the ark of His testament:  and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.  King James Version (KJV) public domain.

COMMENTARY

   As we close our study on Chapter 11, we see the 24 elders anticipating God's possession of His creation, being restored as it was intended with the sound of the seventh trumpet.  These things have been set in motion with the sounding of the seventh trumpet and all of the saints in Heaven have full confidence in our God that His will will be done, that He will prevail.  

   Dr. Henry Morris writes it this way:  "The term "reigned" should be rendered "shown thyself as king."  Christ at this point has not yet actually taken the earthly kingdoms and inaugurated His millennial reign, but He has demonstrated Himself to be the eternal and omnipotent Creator, and therefore absolute sovereign of all."

   "The time of the dead" needs to be understood that they will not be raised for judgment until after the 1000 years that Christ will reign on earth.

   Now, let us address verse 19:  In 2 Chronicles, 36:18, we remember that Nebuchadnezzar destroyed the temple when he took Judah into captivity to Babylon.  "all of the vessels of the house of God, great and small, and the treasures of the house of the Lord" were also looted and carried away....all but the ark of the covenant, which has not been mentioned again after the Babylon victory, until now.  Within the ark was a pot of manna, Aaron's rod, and the two tables of God's law.  The ark was the most sacred aspect of the temple, because it was where God could commune with His people, above the mercy seat, which covered the ark.  The ark of the Covenant was obviously transported to Heaven during that time, to the temple of God there!

   Remember in Matthew 27: 51, that when Jesus died on the cross, the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.  Now, we who have accepted Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, can boldly enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus.  (Hebrews 10: 19 - 25)

   

Do you have a relationship with my Jesus that allows you access to the throne of God?  Click here for more information:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

If this ministry is a blessing to you, we encourage you to pray that God uses our efforts for His glory.  You are also encouraged to leave your thoughts in a comment.  We would love to hear from you.

Do you know anyone who would be blessed by understanding the Holy Bible?  You are encouraged to share our posts on your favorite social media as we spread The Gospel.  Thank you so much and God bless you.

REVELATION 11 PART 1 of 3

REVELATION 11  PART 1 of 3
VERSES 1 - 6

photo courtesy of heart2heart.blogspot.com

   1) And there was given me a reed like unto a rod:  and The Angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein.

   2) But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles:  and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.

   3) And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.

   4) These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.

   5) And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies:  and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.

   6) These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy:  and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.  (King James Version, KJV, public domain)

  

COMMENTARY

   Reading the Book of Revelation is so confusing.  You can't just read it.  If you don't commit to study it, you will give up on trying to understand it; then you will forfeit the blessing.  

   Let us take the time to review the breaking of the first seal of chapter 6:  the white horse.  (Click here to review the entire chapter  http://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/2016/11/revelation-6-1-8-king-james-version.html).   The rapture has taken place and Israel enters into a covenant with Satan for "7 years of peace".  In our current chapter, we see the temple has been rebuilt in Jerusalem.  Keep in mind that Satan had been gaining control of the world's nations since entering the covenant with Israel and was growing increasingly irritated at the Jews worshiping One other than himself; even though their acts of "worship" was blasphemous to the Most High God, Who had already given the Ultimate Sacrifice.  Also, there were 144,000 of them who had accepted Jesus and was preaching the Good News.

    So, the measurement the Apostle John was to perform was aimed at the Jew first, as is always the case with God.  He purifies them first, then judges the Gentile.

   Now, about the "two witnesses":  It is appointed to each man once to die, therefore, we can safely assume that these two are Elijah (see Malachi 4: 5, 6) and Enoch.  They were translated to heaven and did not taste death, so they are 3000 and 4000 years old!  They accepted God's assignment to witness for Him in the last days.  Don't you know that Satan hates them?

   Resuming our review of chapter 6, we see that the plagues these witnesses call down, are being done in heaven with each sound of the trumpets.  They are so in step with The Most High God.  Even when Elijah was walking on earth, he saw the spiritual world.

   Then, we could talk about God's timing.  He kept these two men for thousands of years until He was ready for them to witness to our sinful world.  We are in a hurry for Him to act on our behalf immediately!  We want to be His advisor, His consultant.  We want to hear from Him now!  When in reality, He knows what we need long before we ask for it.  Wait on Him:  His timing is perfect. 

Dear Friend, now is the time to accept the free gift of salvation.  Click here for more information:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

   
If this ministry is a blessing to you, we encourage you to leave your thoughts in a comment.  We would love to hear from you.  You are also encouraged to share this post on your social media, so that your friends might also be blessed.  Thank you.