Our God is Strong to Save
Devotional Contributor: Al Schierbaum
Scripture:
Revelation 19:1-2 “After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying out, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, [2] for his judgments are true and just; for he has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality, and has avenged on her the blood of his servants.”
Observation:
In the Book of Revelation, God reveals to John scenes that are taking place in heaven and on earth. Seven times in the Book, we see what is happening, or going to happen, on earth and simultaneously what is happening in heaven. In Chapter 19, we see a scene from heaven, where there is a great roar of shouting from a multitude declaring, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power (strength) belong to our God, for his judgments are true and just.” On earth in Chapters 17 and 18, God is bringing judgment upon the economic and religious power centers of the earth that have corrupted every way of life and killed/eliminated all believers in Jesus. World leaders saw believers in Jesus as the biggest threat to their self-centered way of life and blamed God for all the destruction on earth that has already taken place. People on earth, at this time, are not turning to God, but shaking their fists in great anger toward Him and anyone who follows Him. On earth in Chapter 17 and 18, God judges the corruption, for His judgments are true and just. In chapter 19, we see in heaven great worship and celebration because God makes all things right. God is strong to save. Jesus wins, even when the blood of His saints are shed!
Application:
In John 16:33, Jesus says, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” Tribulations can come to us in many different forms through corruption, injustice, deceit, or malice. Often there is no one on this earth to make things right, even when we plead with God to make it happen. But be assured, God will make all things right. We can trust our Heavenly Father even in the face of the world’s most selfish and corrupt people. In Chapters 17 and 18, believers are being martyred, yet in Chapter 19, those same people are shouting praises to God because He is holding their persecutors responsible. As believers we sometimes get reward on earth, but our greatest reward is in heaven. Likewise, for those that perpetrate violence, greed, injustice, and abuse may get what is coming to them on earth, but their greatest payment will be for all of eternity in hell. God is truly strong to save, all believers need to declare, “If God be for us, who can be against us.” Romans 8:31.
Request:
Dear God, You are the King of the universe! Like the throngs in heaven I shout Hallelujah! Salvation, glory and power belong to You, for Your judgments are true and just! Thank you for saving me, not only from my sins, but from all the injustice, pain, and abuse inflicted upon me and all fellow believers in Christ. Thank you that your death has paid the price for my sin, that I will never have to face Your wrath. May Your Word give me encouragement, comfort and hope as I face the tribulations of this life, for You have overcome the world! Amen