Read Revelation 9:3-6.
Locusts – have you ever seen a swarm of locust before? I have never personally seen even one locust, but from what I know about them from the Bible, they can destroy crops and fields in no time at all (cf. Exod. 10:12-15). And scorpions – these were used in Old Testament times as a means of disciplining those who were out of line (cf. 2Chron. 10:11). Note here in this Revelation passage that the judgment is not inflicted by literal scorpions, but only that judgment will have the power of scorpions. The pain inflicted by this trumpet judgment will not come in the form of death, but rather in the form of torment and torture not unlike the discipline of scorpions recorded in the OT. In this fifth trumpet judgment, along with strong spiritual oppression will come an affliction that will be so miserable and painful, people will wish themselves dead. Some will seek suicide, but will be unable, giving rise to the speculation that perhaps the affliction itself will inhibit one’s ability or mobility.
Take note of something here. Who are the ones who will be afflicted? Based on v. 4, it will be those who do not worship the living God. Those who have the “seal of God on their foreheads” will be kept from the torment. This is significant because it should be clear that the ones being afflicted ought to turn to God… and yet despite being tormented for five months, there appears to be no turning. I am not suggesting there wasn’t any turning, but there doesn’t appear to be a significant turning to reveal it to John.
I’d like you to consider why after seeing Christ-followers immune to the affliction and only unbelievers being afflicted, why unbelievers wouldn’t turn to Christ. With what seems to be an ongoing escalation of destruction and personal suffering, one would think the lights would go on. I believe there is a reason, and that may be more apparent in the next trumpet. But for now, make this personal by asking yourself: Have there been times when God has tried to get my attention, but I refused to pay attention? IF so, why did you react that way? What finally got your attention? Is He trying to get your attention now? How are you responding?