SWHW Bible Reading Plan: December 2021Sample

Top Takeaway from Jess Hatton:

We need not fear judgement because the Judge is also the one who provides salvation to those who come to Him. 

I have to be careful when I read Revelation. If I am not careful, I begin to picture a movie or work of fiction that borders on a thriller or horror movie. This is specifically the case with the four horsemen of the apocalypse. 

Although the depiction is terrifying in the end times' details, it also describes the hand of justice that so many of us long for. So as we read, it’s important to look for the characteristics revealed about God in the passage so that we don’t lose our vantage point that ultimately He is in control. 

To not get lost in the weeds, I’m going to simplify the seals. They are God’s weapons or emissaries to enact judgment and patrol a world that has turned away from Him. 

The First Seal: The White Horse= Deception 

The Second Seal: The Red Horse= Destruction

The Third Seal: The Black Horse= Famine

The Fourth Seal: The Pale Horse= Death

The Fifth Seal: God hears the pleas of martyrs crying out for justice and gives them the white robes of victory (that is coming). 

The Sixth Seal: Upheaval of Created Earth

As Jesus begins to open these judgements, it is clear no one will be able to escape their reach. As believers, we need to remember our trust is in Jesus and that it is only by His authority that the seals are opened. 

Jesus is the Lamb, and our trust in Him guarantees our victory. While we wait with anticipation for the seals to be opened, let us be reminded, like the souls of those who have been slain, that the war is already won! We need to pray and share our hope in the Savior with the lost world because the day of judgement is coming, and there is no hope apart from Christ. 

Lord, I pray that as we read of what is to come that we become emboldened to share Your truth with a world that is far from You. I pray that our trials, persecutions, and afflictions pale in comparison to the future that is coming for those who are without You. And let us be reminded, like the souls of those who have been slain, that You have already won the war; we need only rest for a little longer.  Amen.