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Revelation 14:12 - Never Give In!

Revelation 14:12 (NIV) This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God's commandments and remain faithful to Jesus.

CONTEXT

The Proclamations Of Three Angels
The Most Fearful And Threatening Message To The Human Race
Revelation 14:6-12
   The most fearful threatening ever addressed to mortals is contained in the third angel's message. That must be a terrible sin which calls down the wrath of God unmingled with mercy. Men are not to be left in darkness concerning this important matter; the warning against this sin is to be given to the world before the visitation of God's judgments, that all may know why they are to be inflicted, and have opportunity to escape them. Prophecy declares that the first angel would make his announcement to "every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people." The warning of the third angel, which forms a part of the same threefold message, is to be no less widespread. It is represented in the prophecy as being proclaimed with a loud voice, by an angel flying in the midst of heaven; and it will command the attention of the world.
   In the issue of the contest all Christendom will be divided into two great classes--those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark. Although church and state will unite their power to compel "all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond" (Revelation 13:16), to receive "the mark of the beast," yet the people of God will not receive it. The prophet of Patmos beholds "them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God" and singing the song of Moses and the Lamb. Revelation 15:2, 3. GC 449-450 [Remnant SB]

INTRODUCTION

Our endurance is related to the quality of our relationship with God. This news about God's ultimate triumph should encourage God's people to remain faithful through every trial and persecution. They can do this, God promises, by trusting in Jesus and obeying the commands found in his Word. The secret to enduring, therefore, is trust and obedience. Trust God to give you patience to endure even the small trials you face daily; obey him even when obedience is unattractive or dangerous. [Life Application SB]

COMMENTARY

   On October 29, 1941, ten months into World War II, Winston Churchill gave a memorable speech at Harrow School, his alma mater. In part, he said, "Never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never - in nothing, great or small, large or petty - never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense. Never yield ... to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy. We stood all alone a year ago, and to many countries it seemed that ... we were finished. ... But instead, our country stood in the gap. There was no flinching and no thought of giving in; and by what seemed almost a miracle ... we now find ourselves in a position where ... we have only to persevere to conquer"
   The greatest war in history is the great controversy between Christ and Satan. As this war nears its close, the forces of evil will do everything in their power to force God's people to break His law. But the apostle John sees a company of believers, of whom is said, "Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus." The word "patience" means "steadfast endurance" These followers of the Lamb live by conviction against overwhelming odds. They refuse to bow to Babylon and are determined to keep God's commandments.
   But they do not have within themselves the power to keep the holy law (Romans 8:7). It is only through "the faith of Jesus" - that is, "faith in Jesus" - that they are enabled to obey. As Paul explains, "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20).
   Never give in. Persevere by looking only to Jesus.
   My Jesus, I will, by faith, persevere in humbly submitting my life each day into Your victorious hands. [The Most Amazing Bible Promises by Amazing Facts]

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

1 Chronicles 16:11 - Seek The Lord Continually, Seek His Presence and Strength.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2024/20240602-1147.html

Romans 8:8 - Live In The Spirit And Not The Flesh.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2018/20180306-1027.html

James 1:12 - Blessed Are Those Who Persevere Under Temptation and Trials.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2022/20220203-0813.html

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/