The Book of Revelation is undeniably one of the more challenging texts in the New Testament to grasp in our modern era. However, it carries a special blessing simply through its reading (Revelation 1:3). To make sense of the lessons within Revelation, I’ve found that breaking it into smaller portions aids in easier comprehension.

In today’s devotion, we’ll focus on a key lesson found in Revelation 12:17 NLT:

And the dragon was angry at the woman and declared war against the rest of her children — all who keep God’s commandments and maintain their testimony for Jesus.

This verse emphasises a crucial point, aligning with what Jesus mentioned about believers facing trials in this world (John 16:33) and the spiritual battle described by Apostle Paul (Ephesians 6:12). Importantly, these challenges aren’t due to the believer’s inadequacy in faith but stem from the devil’s jealousy and anger. This understanding is why Jesus assured us of our inevitable victory, already secured on our behalf, and why Apostle Paul urged us to always be equipped with the “whole armour of God” (Ephesians 6:10–18).

So, as children of the Most High, comprehending Revelation 12:17 helps us grasp why trials and battles are part of our spiritual journey. Our response to these challenges should be one of gratitude rather than complaint, knowing that victory and continued success over the enemy were assured long before our birth. Hallelujah! It’s no wonder that the Apostle John wrote in Revelation 14:12 NLT:

This means that God’s holy people must endure persecution patiently, obeying his commands and maintaining their faith in Jesus.

Endurance and patience are crucial because they reveal the primary aim of our arch-enemy: to erode our faith in Jesus and make us rely on things other than Christ. However, if we remain steadfast in our faith, we’re assured that our endurance will never be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:8; Matthew 24:13; James 1:12–16).

As you step into this week, dear believers, don’t be disheartened by the trials that come your way, especially for the sake of your faith. Approach your battles with confidence in the Lord, knowing that your victory and the promise of a golden crown await those who endure and persevere in maintaining their faith in our Lord Jesus.

Shalom

Nonso Orji

@nonso_orji