In this chapter we see the bowl judgements being poured out. The first reads, "So the first angel left the Temple and poured out his bowl over the earth, and horrible, malignant sores broke out on everyone who had the mark of the beast and who worshiped his statue" So this judgement effects those who have the mark of the beast. In subsequent judgements, we keep see the phrase, "They did not repent of their sins and turn to God and give him glory." a couple of times (verses 9 & 11). This made me start to think about whether those who have received the mark of the beast can repent and return to God. Certainly these phrases in verses 9 and 11 imply that they do have that opportunity although it says no one will do it.
Looking through the book of Revelation where it mentions the mark of the beast, I didn't find anything that says that a person cannot repent and return to God after they have taken the mark of the beast. Now it certainly says that people won't in some places as wee see in verses 9 and 11, but there is no clear cut answer that they can't.
This is yet another reminder to me of God's constant call to us. The Lord whispers love into our hearts and waits for us to turn toward God. God always offers us hope out of the Lord's extravagant love for us! Yes, God loves you extravagantly, in spite of whether you love God back! God's love offers hope and a place of refuge from the storms of life. If you don't yet have a relationship with God, I encourage you to talk to the Lord today and ask God to come and live in your heart. Life can be like an ocean with waves that can cast you all over the place, but God is like a rudder on your boat, helping you find direction and a port in the storms.
If you make this decision today, please let me know about it. You can comment to the post (and I know many other readers will add you to their prayer list as well) or send me an email jimmylang16@yahoo.com. I would love to pray for you and encourage you in your new journey.
God bless you!
No comments:
Post a Comment