Rev. 8-12; 1 Chron. 22-29, 2 Chron. 1-7; Psalm 142-144

Rev. 8-12

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

Experience John’s Vision

Through our imagination, the sounds, sights, and smells of a story can transport us to another place. It may be frightening or exciting. It might stir memories of a past time. It can even lead us to consider a time and place beyond this world. Last week, John's vision led us through the "door standing open in heaven" (Rev. 4:1). And as you read this week, take in all the colorful sights, and dramatic sounds as the spectacular scenes play out in your mind.

Hear the Trumpets

Monday's reading (Rev. 8) begins with the sound of "silence in heaven for about half an hour" (Rev. 8:1). But with the opening of the seventh seal, seven angels receive seven trumpets, and the silence is broken (Rev. 8:2, 7). Each of these trumpets brings partial destruction, affecting a third of the earth (Rev. 8:7-12). They're not meant to bring an end, but repentance — yet people still won't turn from evil (Rev. 9:20-21). The first four trumpets brought hail and fire mixed with blood, a flaming mountain, a falling star, and a darkened sky (Rev. 8:7-13).

  • What do you learn about prayer from the opening paragraph of this chapter (Rev. 8:3-5)?

Smell the Smoke

The week began with incense smoke, bringing its sweet scent before God with the saints' prayers (Rev. 8:3-4). But Tuesday's reading (Rev. 9) is filled with the stench of a different kind of smoke released by two more trumpets. At the sound of the fifth trumpet, smoke rose from a bottomless pit where locusts arose to torment those who hadn't been sealed (Rev. 9:1-6). The sixth trumpet brought sulfurous smoke coming from horse's mouths (Rev. 9:13-19).

  • How do God's purposes for the plagues on Egypt (Exod. 7-11) help us understand these symbols?

Tastes the Scroll

On Wednesday (Rev. 10), we turn to watch a mighty angel come down from heaven — standing on the sea and the land — carrying a tiny scroll that John is told to eat (Rev. 10:1-3). The seven thunders sounded when the angel called out, but John wasn't allowed to record what they said (Rev. 10:3-4).

  • What do you think is signified by John eating the scroll (Rev. 10:9; cf. Jer. 15:16; Ezek. 2:9-3:4)?
  • Why might it bring him both sweetness and bitterness?

Feel the Earthquake

On Thursday (Rev. 11), John is handed a stick to measure God's temple, the altar, and those who worship there (Rev. 11:1). We learn of two witnesses who would eventually be killed by the great beast from the bottomless pit (Rev. 11:3-10). And as the world rejoices over their death, they would return, bringing a massive earthquake (Rev. 11:9-13)! Then, when the seventh trumpet sounded, those in heaven shouted, "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever" (Rev. 11:14).

  • What's the purpose of the temple throughout Scripture, and where is his temple today (cf. 1 Cor. 3:16)?
  • Why is it comforting to recognize that God knows the measure of his temple (cf. Zech. 2:1-5)?

Watch the Battle

On Friday (Rev. 12), two great signs appear in heaven – a pregnant woman and a red dragon (Rev. 12:1-3). But before the dragon could eat the woman's son "who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron" (cf. Psalm 2:7-9) — he's swept away to God's throne, and the woman escapes into the wilderness (Rev. 12:4-6). Then Michael and his angels fight the dragon — "that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world" — defeating him and casting him down to the earth (Rev. 12:7-9). He chases the woman in the wilderness, but as every attempt to destroy her fails, he turns his attention to the rest of her children (Rev. 12:13-17).

  • What does the wilderness represent throughout Scripture, and what do you notice about it here?

1 Chron. 22-29, 2 Chron. 1-7

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

In 1 Chronicles 22-29 and 2 Chronicles 1-7, the narrative focuses on David's preparations for the temple and the early reign of Solomon. David, nearing the end of his life, emphasizes the importance of worship and devotion to God, designating Solomon as his successor to build the temple in Jerusalem. He provides extensive plans and resources for this endeavor, showcasing the significance of reverence in Israel's national life. Solomon, upon ascending to the throne, seeks divine wisdom to govern effectively, leading to the famous encounter at Gibeon. The construction of the temple is a pivotal moment, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people. These passages reinforce themes of leadership, devotion, and the fulfillment of God's promises, highlighting the importance of unity and faithfulness in Israel’s heritage and future, as seen through the lens of worship and rightful stewardship.

Psalm 142-144

REFLECTING ON THE PSALMS

Psalms 142-144 continue the exploration of the believer’s relationship with God, focusing on themes of refuge, trust, and divine intervention. Psalm 142 is a heartfelt cry for help, emphasizing the Psalmist's isolation and deep reliance on God as a refuge in times of distress. In Psalm 143, the plea for divine guidance and renewal is central, as the Psalmist seeks understanding amidst despair, affirming faith in God's spirit. Psalm 144 celebrates God's power as a protector and a source of strength in battle, while also recognizing the fragility of human life. Together, these psalms encourage believers to turn to God for support, express vulnerability in hardship, and find hope through His steadfast presence and power.