Revelation 11:8-19

From the perspective of earth, things look pretty bleak in Revelation chapter eleven. Judgments are being poured out on the earth, people are refusing God’s grace, the enemies of God are celebrating the death of the two prophets, and righteousness seems to be losing. But then comes the hopeful line, “the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.” When things look dark, look up. Christ is coming to reign. Behold, he comes quickly.

Revelation 12:1-6

The scene in heaven continues with two wonders: a woman and a dragon. The woman symbolizes Israel, bringing the Son of God into the world. And the dragon is the devil, the enemy of God who tries to destroy everything God has ordained. In the end, God lovingly protects his people by preparing a place for them in the wilderness similar to Elijah and David. We too can rest in the promise that God will never leave us nor forsake us.

Revelation 11:3-7

We read of two witnesses in Revelation 11, who stand up for God and confront the world. We should be striving to represent God in much the same way as these two ministers in our own lives in this world. Just like them, one day our work will come to an end, and after that we have the resurrection to look forward to. Don’t give up, your labor is not in vain in the Lord.