Jaw-dropping Jewels about Jesus
Rarely does Jesus, God the Son, do exactly what we expect of Him. It seems odd that He so frequently surprises us, given that He never changes. Hebrews 13:8 makes this absolute statement: “Jesus the same yesterday, and today, and forever.” Still, though He is blessedly consistent in His goodness, Jesus does unforeseen things. Even when He does what is expected, He does not always do it in the way that we anticipate. Let us join with Jesus on a jaw-dropping journey. (I will be using this opening paragraph for each of the brief messages in this series. The following material will change daily.)
Revelation 16:12-16 includes the seventh usage of “Almighty” in the New Testament. This passage speaks of the supernatural drying up of the Euphrates River in preparation for the military campaign culminating in Armageddon. The end of verse 14 specifies that this event and its timing unfold according to God’s grand plan, for “that great day of God Almighty” must come. Although it is clear that demons (“unclean spirits” – verse 13 – and “spirits of devils” – verse 14) are actively involved in deceiving leaders, it is also clear that their pernicious actions fall under the ultimate sovereignty of God. “The One Who has His hand on everything” (the literal meaning of “Almighty”) is in control of these final details. When that predicted period of extraordinary distress comes upon the earth, it might seem that evil is going to win. However, this time of trouble is prophesied in considerable specificity, for our Savior God not only knows what will happen but also will make it happen. It is compelling to consider that the same hand that will dry up a major river offers each person “the water of life freely” (Revelation 22:17). May each one of us partake of this gift of eternal salvation by trusting in Jesus Christ. His spike-shattered hands will gladly enfold anyone who calls upon Him as Savior.