November 15: THE RIGHTEOUS JUDGE
And I heard the angel of the waters saying: “You are righteous, O Lord, The One who is and who was and who is to be, Because You have judged these things.” Revelation 16:5
As there is no other mention of the angel of the waters* in scripture, this reference in its context simply refers to the angel in the previous verse who poured his bowl of judgment upon earth’s fresh water supply.
The duties of the angels who are executing the bowl plagues are incredibly solemn. We must remember that every single one of the two-thirds of the angels who were not deceived by Lucifer has observed with horror the effects of his deceptions upon the earth and upon God’s beloved creatures. Every angel in the service of Almighty God is a free agent who, in love and loyalty, has chosen to remain in service to his beloved Creator. As such, the opinion expressed by this particular angel is a sure representation of the opinions of all of the faithful and loyal angels: “You are righteous, O Lord… Because You have judged these things.” In one sense, this statement incorporates the longing of the angels with the prayer of the saints (5:8; 8:3-4). John has included the angel’s statement in Revelation’s record as an encouragement to us. Our limited perspective is increased when we hear heaven’s perspective regarding the judgments of Him whose nature is altogether righteous. His judgment of these things is all-inclusive. Therefore, He will not accidentally miss a single detail. We can and should trust Him in every facet of life.
The angel also reiterates that aspect of God’s character that is outside of time as we know it: “The One who is and who was and who is to be.” When Moses asked how to present Him, the answer was: “I AM WHO I AM.” (Exodus 3:14). The human perspective on time typically regards the present as a razor-thin edge of a vast eternity in either direction. But, if we can learn to trust God, we will benefit from His certain knowledge of all time; and His certain knowledge of what we must do to receive that which He desires to give us: eternal life! But this life must be on His terms. Not because He is an egomaniac but because He made us and loves us and knows what is best for us in every aspect of life. His way is the only way that can bring joyous fulfillment of His vision for each of us. His vision for you and me is more glorious than we can imagine (1 Corinthians 2:9; Ephesians 3:20).
Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing. 2 Timothy 4:8
*Do not confuse the angel of the waters with the supposed angel mentioned in John 5:4, part of a superstition that portrays God as a rewarder of the one who pushes other people out of his way. In the story, Jesus gave no credence whatsoever to the superstition (vv.6-8), but rather went about His business of healing.