Watch the Throne!Regardless of what you're going through — loneliness, temptation, depression, stress, financial setbacks, conflict, loss, persecution, the works, — a revelation of the character and glory of God is essential to getting through those periods in life that leave you feeling completely devastated.
In Revelation 4, John, a guy in his mid-nineties who had been unjustly sentenced to solitary confinement on a prison island called Patmos, got a behind the scenes glimpse of the throne room of God. Talk about the ultimate in prison breaks! John was taken from Patmos into God's throne room. The view was staggering.
John's perspective was immediately altered! His frame of reference completely transformed! The centerpiece in John's vision was a piece of furniture referenced at least seventeen times in Revelation 4-5: the throne of God. Everything else was defined by its relationship to the throne. And what was the primary activity taking place around the throne? Unceasing worship!
Revelation 4 reminds us that the history of the universe - from creation to consummation - finds its significance in worship! God is glorious. If we really know Him, see Him and experience Him, we can't help but stand in awe of Him and respond in worship.
The word worship is derived from the Old English word for worth. Worship is an indication of the worth, value, weightiness, significance, importance or prominence we give to someone or something.
John Piper describes it like this: "Worship is every act of the heart, mind, body and soul, which intentionally expresses the infinite worth of our great God." — John Piper
Revelation 4 reminds us that regardless of what's going on in life: 1) worship can alter our perspective, and, 2) God and God alone deserves to be worshipped!
Going Deeper: Read Revelation 4:1-11 daily this week. Spend time worshipping God for His power, sovereignty, majesty and holiness.
Sing a "new song" to God during your personal devotions. Turn the song of heaven in Revelation 4 into your own song!
Finally, make every day an adventure in worship, realizing that your heart can become a throne room for God. Make it your goal each day to "intentionally express the infinite worth of God" in your attitude, actions, conversations and character.
Music Suggestions: 10,000 Reasons by Matt Redman, Revelation Song by Kari Jobe / Gateway Worship
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