Thunder, Lamps, Beasts and Worship

"And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind. And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, LORD God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever, The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created." (Revelation 4:5-11 - King James Version)

From God's throne, which would indicate that this is from God Himself, John saw flashes of lightning and hear thunder. These are symbolic of judgment. God is preparing to judge the earth for its wickedness.

Directly in front of the throne, John saw seven lamp stands burning. These, as we discussed in a previous blog are symbolic of the Holy Spirit.

Farther out from God's throne was a smooth surface that looked like crystal clear glass.

John's attention was then drawn to four angelic creatures who were flying around God's throne. These creatures are comparable to the angels Isaiah saw in Isaiah chapter six, and that Ezekiel saw in Ezekiel chapter one.

The first is like a lion symbolizing God's majesty. The second is like a calf or bull representing God's power. The third is like a man indicating intelligence and wisdom. The last is like an eagle which is swift in flight. This speaks to God being swift when He acts.

These angelic creatures were worshiping God, leading those in heaven's throne room in praise to their Creator. As John watches, the twenty four elders become caught up in the worship. They fall down before the Lord and throw their crowns at His feet and praise God as the Creator of the Universe.

Some day, we may see the worship of God in His throne room. Yet we should learn to worship Him now in spirit and in truth. He is our Creator and He deserves our reverence and praise.

This heavenly scene should give us comfort. Things are not out of control. The Ruler of the Universe sits upon His throne. He is attended by twenty four powerful angels who await His command and who are representatives for millions more. As well, the Holy Spirit in all His fullness is ready to act on behalf of the Trinity. Warnings of judgment go out from the throne.

The Day of the Lord approaches. God's plan has not been altered. God's plan has not changed.
Our lives are not accidents. We are included in God's plan. If we serve Him, we will benefit from it. If we serve ourselves, we will lose out on its blessings. Let us serve and worship the One Who sits on this heavenly throne.