The Book of Revelation | Don't Give Up on God

The central message of Revelation 16 isn't really about bowls and plagues—it's about perseverance. John is writing to believers who are ready to quit, who are wondering if their faith is worth the cost, who are tempted to throw in the towel and walk away from it all.

To these struggling believers, John says: "Don't give up on God, because God always wins." Even when it looks like evil is triumphant, even when faithfulness brings suffering while compromise brings prosperity, even when you feel like you're fighting a losing battle—don't give up on God.

The judgment described in this chapter serves as both warning and encouragement. It's a warning to those who are tempted to align themselves with forces that oppose God, showing them where that path ultimately leads. But it's also an encouragement to faithful believers, assuring them that their perseverance matters and that justice will ultimately prevail.

Biblical scholar F.F. Bruce reminds us that the book of Revelation was written primarily for encouragement, not intimidation. The vivid imagery of judgment wasn't meant to terrify believers into submission, but to strengthen their resolve by showing them the bigger picture.

When you're ready to quit—whether it's faith, ministry, marriage, or any other significant commitment—remember that quitting often happens when we're closest to breakthrough. The pressure intensifies right before victory comes. The temptation to give up is strongest when giving up would be most tragic.

The believers John was writing to faced incredible pressure to abandon their faith. Many did. But those who persevered discovered that God's promise was true: he always wins. Not sometimes, not usually, but always.

This doesn't mean that faithful people never suffer or that following Jesus guarantees earthly success. It means that the final chapter hasn't been written yet, and when it is, it will vindicate those who trusted God even when they couldn't see how the story would end.

Whatever you're facing right now, whatever is making you want to give up, remember John's message: Don't give up on God, because God always wins.

Prayer: Lord, when I'm ready to quit, remind me that you never give up on me. Help me to persevere, knowing that victory is assured even when I can't see it yet.