Thank God for the faithful prophets of Israel: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Hosea, and others. Thank God for the Apostle Paul, who, in the face of constant persecution, beatings, imprisonment, and weariness, continued to faithfully minister for his Savior until death. Thank God for Martin Luther who, in the 1400’s, braved threats and intimidation to boldly proclaim justification by faith. Thank God for John Bunyan who, in the 1600’s, was imprisoned in England for twelve years for refusing to stop faithfully preaching for Christ. During this time he triumphantly wrote the classic “Pilgrims Progress.” Thank God for Paul Sadler, who worked tirelessly as a writer, preacher, counselor, and encourager as President of the Berean Bible Society for almost thirty years. In every era, God has had servants who remained faithful to Him regardless of difficult circumstances.

The spiritually and circumstantially dark days of the Tribulation, as described in Revelation 13, are contrasted by the encouraging description of Revelation 14. The 144,000 male Jews who are “the firstfruits” of salvation during the Time of Jacob’s Trouble (vs. 4), are seen standing with Christ on earthly “mount Sion” in the future Millennial Kingdom. They will be singing “a new song” (vs. 3) which only they know. No one fully understands the trials of another, nor do we fully comprehend the difficulties these Jews will face. “No man could learn that song,” but they undoubtedly sing with joy and thanksgiving for the enablement of God. “In their mouth was no guile” (vs. 5). “Guile” means “deceit” or “craftiness.” In contrast to the lies and deceits of the Anti-Christ and the false prophet, these servants of God will straightforwardly tell God’s truth to a lost world. They will be undeterred by threats, angry responses, being in the righteous minority, fears, or fatigue. They will, as their Savior before them, faithfully “reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and judgment” (John 16:8). They will effectively choose to stand between sinners and eternal damnation, offering God’s eternal life. These redeemed saints are described as “they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth” (Revelation 14:4). These saints will be rewarded for their faithfulness with the special honor of forever being close by the side of their risen Savior.

Don’t falter! May we who live in this present Dispensation of Grace purpose to likewise be faithful to our Savior until ushered into His presence. May we be found in that eternal number who are found faithful.