“The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place.” – Revelation 1:1a

Scripture reading: Revelation 1:1-8

God nowhere gives a timetable of events for us to follow. Jesus said in Acts 1:7, “It is not for you to know the times and dates the father has set by His own authority.” What God intends in this book is to reveal things that must soon take place, so that we may be assured that Jesus is coming, keeping His promises of complete salvation. Jesus is governing all things. He here sheds light on the dark and terrible times of our world so that we are able to keep the faith until He returns.

This revelation is for His servants, for all who are saved from the guilt and dominion of sin to serve Christ with a new obedience. Only those who repent of their sin and believe in Christ will receive the blessings promised in this revelation. Only those who humbly submit to Christ and seek to serve Him in this dark world will find light and blessing.

This book is about what must soon take place. In fact, it is about things already taking place. God has a plan and all things are happening in our world according to His sovereign will, not by chance or fate. This is a comforting thought! Events that are happening must take place as our Lord’s return draws near. These things are indicators that Jesus is returning to make all things new; all the signs are there! As Jesus says in Revelation 22, “Behold, I am coming soon, and my reward is with me.”

Suggestions for prayer

Thank the Lord for ruling all things and for revealing to us His governing in everything so that one day all things will be made new, and sin shall be no more. Ask for faith to believe and live in that hope.

Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga has served in four churches and he retired in September 2019. He and his wife now reside in Washington, North Carolina. He presently serves as a relationship Counsellor with Coastal Pregnancy Centre, as the chairman of the Synodical appeals committee of the URCNA, and also enjoys helping in various churches when possible. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. It is also available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.