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God’s People Delivered, December 22
Thus saith the Lord, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away,
and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him
that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children.
Isaiah 49:25
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When the protection of human laws shall be withdrawn from those who honor
the law of God, there will be, in different lands, a simultaneous movement for
their destruction. As the time appointed in the decree draws near, the people will
conspire to root out the hated sect. It will be determined to strike in one night a
decisive blow, which shall utterly silence the voice of dissent and reproof.
The people of God—some in prison cells, some hidden in solitary retreats in
the forests and the mountains—still plead for divine protection, while in every
quarter companies of armed men, urged on by hosts of evil angels, are preparing
for the work of death. It is now, in the hour of utmost extremity, that the God of
Israel will interpose for the deliverance of His chosen....
With shouts of triumph, jeering, and imprecation, throngs of evil men are about
to rush upon their prey, when, 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.
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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 saying, “Look up,”
and lifting their eyes to the heavens, they behold the bow of promise. The black,
angry clouds that covered the firmament 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.
While all the world is plunged in darkness, there will be light in every dwelling
of the saints. They will catch the first light of His second appearing.
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