READ Revelation 19
John describes Jesus' return to the earth as the conquering King.
 
INSIGHT
Apocalypse: "The revelation of a violent struggle in which evil will be destroyed" (Webster's Dictionary). The second coming of Christ will be the apocalypse fulfilled. While the symbolism of the language in Revelation makes it difficult to ascertain exactly how events will unfold, it is clear that when Jesus returns again, it will be to confront evil and destroy it. The heavens will split and Jesus will descend upon the armies of the earth which have gathered in opposition to His return. In contrast to His past role as Savior of humanity, He will now come as King of creation. Whereas once He made Himself subject to humans, now all humanity will become subject to Him. History will end and eternity will begin.
 
PRAYER
We praise Him that we can look forward to His appearing:
Praise the Lord!
Praise God in his sanctuary;
Praise him in his mighty heaven!
Praise him for his mighty works;
Praise his unequaled greatness!
Praise him with a blast of the ram’s horn;
Praise him with the lyre and harp!
Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord!
Praise the Lord!
(Psalm 150:1-3, 6).
 
Pause for a time of confession as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
Have mercy on me, O God,
Because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion,
Blot out the stain of my sins.
Wash me clean from my guilt.
Purify me from my sin.
For I recognize my rebellion;
It haunts me day and night
(Psalm 51:1-3).
 
Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind, and pray this affirmation to the Lord:
Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later (Romans 8:18).
 
As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

• Sensitivity to sin
• The ministries of your church
• Your activities for the day

 
Finally, offer this prayer to the Lord:
Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21).