God Protects His People | Daily Devotion
Revelation 7:1-8 NLT
Here in Revelation 7 we see a break in the judgments that are being unleashed on earth. There is a pause. Four angels are standing at the corners of the earth, holding back the winds. Everything is calm. The leaves in the trees are not rustling; the sea is smooth as glass. It’s as if the earth is holding its breath.
Then John sees an angel coming from the east, carrying the seal of the living God. He hears the angel call out to the four angels who are granted power to harm the earth, “Hold on! Don’t hurt the land or the sea until we have placed God’s seal of protection on His bondservants.” 144,000 Jews are selected from the tribes of Israel. They are marked with God’s seal, His name, and are given a special ministry. These are the missionaries in the Tribulation, with a specific mission: proclaiming the gospel of Christ to a dying world.
The last verse of Revelation 6 poises a question, “For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” The answer is found here in Revelation 7. The 144,000 will stand because they are protected by God and all of the honor and power of His name.
They are protected and empowered by:
The Trinity – God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Perfect provision.
El Roi – the God who sees everything, nothing escapes His notice. He is all knowledgeable and shares His knowledge with those who listen.
Jehovah Jireh – the God who provides for every need from His limitless resources. Thus, they are protected by provision.
Jehovah Raah – the Great Shepherd, who knows and guides His sheep along the path of His will.
Jehovah Rapha – the God who heals, every spiritual ailment, physical, psychological and social ailment so that they are capable and able to walk in His will.
Jehovah Nissi – the family banner, the One who leads and sets the standard and covering. His protection in His standard is found in the integrity of the people.
Immanuel – God with us. The 144,000 are protected and empowered by God’s constant presence with them.
Yahweh – their personal Lord. They are protected and resilient due to their relationship with Him.
El Shaddai – the All Sufficient One, sufficient for every need.
Adonai – the One who is Sovereign.
Abba, Father – Papa. They are children of God.
God’s seal of protection, truly declares who He is and His everlasting love, providing for His people in what He has specifically called of them.
The 144,000 will be the light during the dark night of the Tribulation, pointing people to Jesus. Though Israel failed in their witness during the Old Testament, they will impact the world during this time and many will be saved.
God will specifically choose these 144,000. He will give them gifts and anoint them for service. He has a plan and they play a strategic role in that plan of salvation.
Christian, you too, are chosen by God—Ephesians 1:1. God says, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, thoughts of peace and not of evil to give you a future and a hope”—Jeremiah 29:11. God has called you to a special ministry. He has given you gifts to use for His glory. He has placed you where you are for such a time as this—Esther 4:14. God is strategic in His timing and you play a vital role in His plan. Are you ready to step it up for Him? Right now, hear God whispering to your heart, “My seal is on you! I will protect you, so be bold in your testimony!”
Prayer: Abba, thank You for this insight into the future. Please open our eyes to what You are calling of us today, in Jesus’ name, Amen.