The Beatitudes of Revelation

by Danny Douglas

 

“Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand” (Revelation 1:3).  Do we read, study, hear and keep what is written in the Bible?

“And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from hence forth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them” (Revelation 14:13).  If you died in your present condition, which is possible, could this be said of you?

“Behold, I come as a thief.  Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame” (Revelation 16:15).  Are you keeping your garments spotless by a faithful and godly life?  Is your life characterized by watchfulness?  “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41).

“And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb.  And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God” (Revelation 19:9). When Christ comes to be united in Heaven with His holy bride, the church, will you be invited to the marriage supper, because you have lived a faithful life as a member of His church?

“Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years” (Revelation 20:6).  As one who has been risen with Christ in baptism (Romans 8:4), have you been faithful through trials, like those described here.

“Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book” (Revelation 22:7).  Are you a blessed keeper of Gods word, and hence ready for the Lord’s sudden coming?

“Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14).  Will you be granted entrance into Heaven, because you are one who does the will of the Lord?  If so, you will live eternally and not die, as the “tree of life” symbolizes?  Jesus said: “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).

Friends, if we do the things outlined in these beatitudes; then we have great reason for great joy and happiness due to our blessed relationship with God and the blessings that belong to us!