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Chapter 35—God’s People Delivered
As the time appointed in the decree against God’s people comes,
the inhabitants of the earth unite to destroy the disturbers of their
peace. In one night they determine to strike the decisive blow that
shall forever silence the voice of the reprover. The waiting ones,
in their solitary retreats, are still pleading for divine protection. In
every quarter, companies of armed men, urged on by hosts of evil
angels, are preparing for the work of death. With shouts of triumph,
with jeers and imprecations, they are about to rush upon their prey.
But lo, a dense blackness, deeper than the darkness of the night,
falls upon the earth. Then a rainbow, shining with the glory from
the throne of God, spans the heavens, and seems to encircle each
praying company. The angry multitudes are suddenly arrested. Their
mocking cries die away. The objects of their murderous rage are
forgotten. With fearful forebodings they gaze upon the symbol
of God’s covenant, and long to be shielded from its overpowering
brightness.
By the people of God a voice, clear and melodious, is heard, say-
ing, “Look up,” and, lifting their eyes to the heavens, they behold the
bow of promise. The black, angry clouds that covered the firmament
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are parted, and like Stephen they look up steadfastly into Heaven,
and see the glory of God, and the Son of man seated upon his throne.
In his divine form they discern the marks of his humiliation; and
from his lips they hear the request, presented before his Father and
the holy angels, “I will that they also, whom thou hast given me,
be with me where I am,” Again a voice, musical and triumphant,
is heard, saying, “They come! they come! holy, harmless, and
undefiled. They have kept the word of my patience; they shall walk
among the angels;” and the pale, quivering lips of those who have
held fast their faith, utter a shout of victory.
It is at midnight that God manifests his power for the deliverance
of his people. The sun appears shining in its strength. Startling
signs and wonders follow in quick succession. The wicked look with
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