May 23, 2022

…no rest day or night… Revelation 14:11

The chaotic period just before the return of Jesus will be (is already becoming) a time of many contrasting facets—good and bad—like no other in the history of the world. Biblical passages often present contrasts for the purpose of building our discernment capabilities. The phrase, no rest day or night, is a clue that the setting is still earth and Jesus has yet to arrive, for we know that there will be no night in the soon-coming future for God’s faithful ones (Revelation 21:25).

Those who accept the beast’s mark are permitted to buy and sell (13:17), but they have chosen these privileges over the available choice and privilege to be obedient to God above all else. Commerce, trade, and tradition rank ahead of the Lord Jesus in the hearts and minds of so many who claim to love Him. They place a high value on what the majority is doing. They are anxious about their material needs and wants. Yes, they may buy and sell.

While it is true that those who choose to live for God may be met with severe persecution, or even death (13:15), they possess the incomparable peace of God as they rest in the confidence that His way is always best.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.” Revelation 14:12-13

Great peace have those who love your law, And nothing causes them to stumble. Psalm 119:165