Revelation 20:4

PASSAGE: Revelation 20:4 - "Then I saw thrones, and seated on them were those to whom the authority to judge was committed. Also I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for the testimony of Jesus and for the word of God, and those who had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years."

PAUSE: The book of Revelation describes a future trial that will come upon all who are living at this time of great tribulation. One of these end times events is the Antichrist demanding that the world worship him alone. If this person is a government leader, should we bow in obedience? For followers of Christ, it's an easy answer -- of course not! But for some, the threat of punishment, persecution, or death will be too much for them to resist. When we are pressured to break the commands of God, even to the point of death, there will be a great reward for those who refuse to do so. Whenever your test may come, stand firm in obedience to God's kingdom!

PRAYER: Lord, one day a ruler will oppose You in an ultimate showdown. Give me the faith of one who would never deny You, no matter the cost! Amen.