Listen to today’s devo!

I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. (Rev 22:16)

For nearly fifty minutes, two basketball teams battled—one to stay in the lead and the other trying to get the lead. With seconds remaining, a player on the winning team stepped to the foul line, only needing to make one of two attempts to secure the win. He missed both shots. The opponent grabbed the ball, raced down the court, and heaved it from half court. All eyes watched with amazement as the ball went through the hoop, tying the game. After the game, all fans left knowing they had witnessed one of the greatest games played. However, while they watched the game, their emotions were erratic—one moment excitement, the next misery. Why? Because there was so much doubt as to who would win. Only after the outcome was known did the emotions of the winning team’s fans turn to excitement.

In life, knowing the outcome changes the way ups and downs are experienced. Fear becomes anticipation; hopelessness becomes hope, because good awaits on the other side.

This is the message of Revelation—a testimony of Jesus to the churches. It was not written to reveal the mark of the beast or who the antichrist may be. It was written to encourage the churches that the best is yet come. Put succinctly, it tells the churches that Jesus wins, and those in the church share in that victory.

Write out a prayer declaring victory over your struggles.

T. J. Albertson has pastored in The Wesleyan Church for eighteen years, the last sixteen in interchurch service. He loves teaching the whole Bible and its relevance to life.

© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.