Revelation 5:13 Then I heard every creature – in heaven, on earth, under the earth, and in the sea – singing: “To the One seated on the throne and to the Lamb belong praise, honor, glory, and ruling power forever and ever.”
In Revelation, before the seals are opened and the four horsemen of the apocalypse are loosed upon the earth, John sees the power of heaven and hears every creature singing praise to God, recognizing His right to rule. This is a moment of crystal-clear confidence for John: one pure tone ringing out from the universe saying honor, glory and power to God and the Lamb.
11 Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. 12 In a loud voice they were saying:
“Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain,
to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength
and honor and glory and praise!”
13 Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying:
“To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
be praise and honor and glory and power,
for ever and ever!”
It is from this perspective that John is then shown the dark rebellion of the beast, the persecution of the saints, and the judgement that will come upon the earth. It is also from this vantage point that we must be His witnesses in this broken world.
There are many brutal, chaotic, and painful issues in the world. How do we look at these situations and not become overwhelmed? More often than not, I stumble if I venture into the day without first focusing on Jesus sitting upon His throne of glory and power. Every day, I need that perspective of hope, strength, and clarity that John saw.
Currently things are emotional and intense; still, we are to be the peacemakers. We are to “offer a drink” to those who treat us with hostility and disrespect. In all that we do, we should practice wisdom, mercy, and compassion. Truth should be communicated with love and respect. When we are “slapped” on the cheek or called all sorts of names, before becoming overwhelmed and overcome – we should step back. We are not righteous, wise, or strong in our selves. Walk away from the chaos and be transported in your thoughts to the right hand of the Father. Stand before Jesus and let the scene that John recorded fill your heart completely. In His presence, let your soul be liberated. He is worthy of all honor, glory, and power. He is also worthy of our repentance and our humble obedience.