“And every creature which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, I heard saying:
‘Blessing and honor and glory and power
Be to Him who sits on the throne,
And to the Lamb, forever and ever!’
Then the four living creatures said, ‘Amen!’ And the twenty-four elders fell down and worshiped Him who lives forever and ever.” – Revelation 5:13-14
Scripture reading: Acts 2:14-28
Today, by God’s grace, we gather to worship as part of the thronging worshippers from all over the world. Today we may especially focus on that great event in redemptive history known as Pentecost. What a joy to be led in the conviction of the Holy Spirit to bring our worship to God. God is worthy of our praise and adoration! His Word to us is life. To live out of the covenant congregationally is a rich treasure. Today is a foretaste of what is yet to come in greater abundance.
The vision John receives in our text depicts something of both the worship and activity in heaven. John has been permitted to see the inner area of God’s heavenly dwelling. What wonder and glory!! The song sung in verse 13 is a testimony to God’s glory, truth, justice, holiness and His awe-inspiring deeds. God is great and greatly to be praised! How is it possible that His Name not be glorified and feared? A heart in tune with God can’t help but sing His praise and so also does as the congregation, the body of Christ.
On that first Pentecost Day, those who were given ears to listen could hear what Jesus has accomplished for those given Him by the Father. Today as we go to church, we can again hear through the work of the Holy Spirit (applying the Word) what great things our Heavenly Father has done for His children.
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
Suggestions for prayer
Pray with heartfelt thanksgiving, acknowledging the glory of our thrice Holy God.
“Unto God Almighty, sitting on the throne, and the Lamb victorious, be the praise alone. God has wrought salvation; He did wondrous things; who shall not extol Thee, Holy King of kings?” – Psalter Hymnal 469:3
Pastor Peter Vellenga serves as an itinerant preacher in the churches of Southern Ontario. This daily devotional is available in a print edition you can buy at Nearer to God Devotional.
