The Seven Bowls of God's Wrath

Today’s reading returns us one more time to a picture of God’s wrath. This final set of seven judgements (like the seals and trumpets before it) show that God will, indeed, punish sin. God is not just a God of mercy, but also a God of judgement. This is a warning to all, to turn to God and call on his mercy. And it is also an assurance to those who suffer at the hands of others. Evil will be punished, and those who “get away with it” for now will not get away with it forever. As you read, consider these questions: “In what ways have you contributed to the suffering of others?” (See God’s response to evil, and truly repent) and “Where have you been wronged and it was never made right?” (See God’s response to evil, and give your desire for vengeance over to Him)

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REFLECTION

The Three Angels

by Kelsey Bacon

In today's reading, we see a lot of wrath. I mean, we've pretty much been reading about God's wrath for a while now. And I think with all the stark imagery and confusing metaphors it can be difficult to draw out truths to apply to our lives, to answer the question, "what is God saying to me through this passage?" But fortunately, with this passage, I think the message is pretty clear. Within the destruction and the wrath of God displayed here, there are three clear points I see. Let's break them down.

First - God is just. Verse 5 says, "Then I heard the angel in charge of the waters say: 'You are just in these judgments, you who are and who were, the Holy One, because you have so judged...'" then verse 7 goes on to say, "'Yes, Lord God Almighty, true and just are your judgments.'" It is made clear that God's actions are just, that his rulership brings justice for the wronged and the oppressed, and that he is our ultimate judge.

Second - God is merciful. You can see as you read each bowl being poured out that even though these sinners deserve death, they are still given the mercy of life. God does not go so far as to strike them down, but only to bring plagues much like he did to those in Egypt. He wants to show them the cost of their sins, give them the chance to turn, and yet still they do not. Even in his wrath, God is merciful.

Third - Repentance is the only way. These plagues are clearly meant to cause sinners to see their wrongdoing and turn to their Lord, repent of their sins. And even though those in this passage refuse to set down their pride and see the truth, we know that we still have the chance. We see in these verses the consequences of sin, yet there is still hope.

As you reflect on this passage today, I urge you to ask these questions of yourself and God:

1.    In what ways have you seen God's justice? In what ways might you help bring God's justice in this world?

2.    In what ways have you seen God's mercy? In what ways might you show God's mercy in this world?

3.    Of what do you need to repent? Ask God for forgiveness and to help you turn from that path.

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER

THURSDAY: TRIUMPH
Pray for scientists all over the world seeking antidotes to heal the world of this virus. Pray they would be triumphant quickly.