Read Micah 6:1 through 7:20; Revelation 8:1–13
Revelation 8 is sobering. It’s interesting that John records a substantial pause in heaven—after the seal is opened but before the events begin. Was the pause consideration for the calamity ahead? Was the silence worship for God who could orchestrate this? We don’t know. But this is a link in the chain of events God will use to ultimately bring His righteousness to all humankind. Verse 3 shows us another important element in God’s unfolding plan.
Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all God’s people, on the golden altar in front of the throne (Revelation 8:3).
Why? Again, we can only speculate, but what this Scripture does show us is the value God places on our prayers. By all means, we should pray when calamity strikes or when we suspect it is about to strike. But at any stage of life, prayer signifies our relationship with God. He listens; He hears—whether it’s a time of testing, turmoil, and tribulation, or whether it’s just an ordinary day.
THOUGHT FOR TODAY: In good times and in bad, God savors our prayers.
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