Many people struggle with the book of Revelation. We complain about the imagery presented as we struggle to convert symbology to reality. Our attempts are futile. Rather than gaining assurance, we get fear. Maybe, it is time that we approach this book differently. Let’s leave our preconceptions and, more importantly, ourselves behind. I discovered this as I read through Revelation 1. When I began, my focus was on one thing; myself. Simply put, I begin worrying about my future. What will the end-times mean for me? This inward focus inhibits my ability to see the real message John presents. Thankfully, God is faithful. His word exposes my error and helps me correct it (Hebrews 4:12). Today, as I read Revelation 1, I am reminded that:
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- God is in charge. He gave Jesus the revelation to bring to us. He commands angels and sits on a throne.
- Because he loves us, He freed us from our sins by the blood of Jesus (v6)
- He is the alpha and omega (v8). He existed before time began and will continue after it ends.
So what does the book of Revelation bring us? A clear picture of who we are who God is. Nothing else matters. In fact, everything in this world will cease. It will no longer exist. Except for God. He will continue. He will rule and he will love us. Forever and always. That is enough for me. Is that enough for you?