John saw four angels who were standing at the four corners of the earth (referring to the whole earth, the four points of the compass). The sudden silence and the angels holding back the four winds from blowing upon the earth picture God’s protection from harm; they contrast the peace and security of the believers with the terror of those hiding in the rocks. The winds described here picture harmful winds as agents of God bringing destruction. The four angels hold back the winds so that not a leaf rustled in the trees, and the sea became as smooth as glass.
After the redeemed sang their song, these worshiped God and sang to him seven words of praise because of the salvation he had given to all the redeemed. Jesus said, “There is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents” (Luke 15:10). Imagine the great joy of the angels in heaven when they stand with this countless crowd of believers who had repented of sin and accepted the salvation of the Lamb.
One of the twenty-four elders turned to John and anticipated his question regarding the identity of this great crowd in white robes, “Where do they come from?” These people have come out of the great tribulation. They have persevered, standing true for Christ. Some may have been martyred, but probably not all of them. They have been redeemed, for they have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb and made them white. It is difficult to imagine how blood could make any cloth white, but the blood of Jesus Christ is the world’s greatest purifier because it removes the stain of sin (Hebrews 9:14). White symbolizes sinless perfection or holiness, which can be given to people only by the death of the sinless Lamb of God on their behalf. This is a picture of how believers are saved through faith.
All who have been faithful through the ages were singing before God’s throne. Their tribulations and sorrows were over: no more tears for sin, for all sins were forgiven; no more tears for suffering, for all suffering was over; no more tears for death, for all believers had been resurrected to die no more.
SO WHAT? (what will I do with what I have read today?)
These are difficult passages to do devotional from. But as I read today, I am comforted by two unchanging truths. (1) - The blood of Christ washes clean all who trust in Him for salvation and forgiveness of sin. Washed clean. How unbelievably comforting is that? Washed clean from by actions, thoughts, words - washed clean and made new. How do you put a price on that? I am so grateful Lord.
(2) There is a day when there will be no more cancer, no more chemo therapy, no more Alzheimer's, no more abuse, no more poverty, no more in justice, no more suffering. Oh Lord, help me and all those who know You, stay faithful to the end. Help us endure and persevere.
In your battle today, whatever it may be - stay the course. Stay faithful.
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