By Mike Kurtz
Read Revelation 11:7-10.
This is the first appearance of a beast in the book of Revelation. In all, there are 37 references to a beast in the book. This first reference is to none other than Satan. Other references are to a beast is one out of the sea (13:1) referring to a world dictator, and a beast out of the land (13:11) referring to a false religious leader. In today’s the beast out of the Abyss is Satan, and his power over the two witnesses is fierce and overpowering. That is not to say that Satan can overpower God, who is at work in the two witnesses, however. As one commentator has noted regarding great prophets of God, “when their ministry is finished, God permits their enemies to overcome them.”[1]
Such may be the case with God’s children. As Craig is going to note in his message this week, God has a purpose for our lives, and when that purpose has been fulfilled, our time for heaven will come. It is equally true then that while we are still on this earth, God is not finished with us – our work is not done. We may feel useless and of no benefit at times in our lives, but in reality, God is preparing us to be used of Him. Let me state that again: God is not through with you.
I am aware of some who are depressed over an apparent lack of purpose in their lives. Every day that goes by seems to be a constant reminder of that fact. But listen, God is preparing you for something. I don’t know what it is; you may not either, but He is not finished with you.
When reading about the death of the two witnesses, the people of the earth are elated that the torment of the witnesses is over (13:10). They are unwilling to hear and believe the message of the two witnesses. Their death is like the removal of a thorn from their side. Believe me, Satan is cheering with them, and he, too, is elated over their death. And Satan is elated when God’s children are giving in to the lie that God is finished with them. It is not true. Our presence in this life means God wants to continue to use us as a testimony for Him. Don’t give Satan a reason to cheer. God is not finished with you.
Have you ever felt useless and finished? Know that God is always at work in us, and in His time He will work through us. In the meantime, spend time at His feet worshipping Him in prayer and praise. That may seem difficult in these times, but God can transform our minds and attitudes when we will envelope our thoughts on Him.
[1] Walvoord, The Revelation of Jesus Christ, p. 181.