Society shifting to occultism

Concerning Mystery Babylon, the Bible's last book predicts that by her "sorcery all the nations were deceived" (Revelation 18:23). Significantly, ancient Babylon was permeated with "magicians...astrologers...[and] sorcerers" (Daniel 2:2). Before she fell, God rebuked ancient Babylon for "the multitude of [her] sorceries" and "for the great abundance of her enchantments" (Isaiah 47:9). We should expect the same kind of activities within modern Babylon.

Look around. Spiritualism, witchcraft (Wicca), and vampirism are on the rise. Surely the return of Jesus Christ draws near. Let's focus on His light, His love, His cross, and His power, while mercy lingers.

This counsel is timely: "Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (James 4:7).

Burst of Light

"I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power, and the earth was lightened with his glory" (Revelation 18:1). This verse describes - in symbolic imagry - a final outpouring of the Holy Spirit and heavenly light upon a dark world before the great Day of the Lord.

The light of God's glory radiates from His Son, Jesus Christ (see 2 Corinthians 4:4-6). Jesus is "the light of the world" (John 8:12). May His light, His power, and His righteousness permeate our hearts, separating us from the Devil's darkness.

Ready for Armageddon

The word, "Armageddon," is found only one time in the entire Bible - in Revelation 16:16 - and contrary to popular opinion, there is absolutely no hint in its context that this final "battle of the great day of God Almighty" (verse 14) has anything to do with guns, missiles, bombs, or is centered in the Middle East. Verses 17-21 make it clear that when "Armageddon" hits, a mighty "earthquake" (verse 18) causes every city around the world to crumble (verse 18), "every island" to flee, and "the mountains" to vanish (verse 20). Clearly, its effect will be global.

Not only is there only one verse in the Bible where "Armageddon" is mentioned, but there is only verse that specifically states how to prepare for the battle. In that solitary verse, Jesus Christ declares:

Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame (Revelation 16:15).

Those "garments" refer to the pure robe of the righteousness of Jesus Christ (see also Revelation 3:5, 18; 6:11; 7:14) which God's loyal people will both "put on" and continue wearing throughout the temptations of these last days.

Let's put on that garment now.

Let's prepare for the end.