As I read today’s passage I was immediately reminded of the story of Lot in Genesis 19. “With the coming of dawn”, the angels extol Lot and his family to hurry and flee the city destined to receive the wrath of God.
I also was reminded of the number of times the dual meaning of the words in Galations 6:7-8 have played out over the history of the world. “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” After the 9th plague, Pharoah promised death to Moses, but instead death fell on the first born of Egypt.
It is not by deeds that we are saved, it is by grace and the redeemeing power of Jesus. But it is by deeds that those who reject that salvation are punished. Proverbs 10:24 says that what the wicked fears will come upon him, but the desire of the righteous will be granted.
Do you live a life of fear or desire? Do you see the scarcity of the world and seek to grab as much as possible from others or do you see the abundance of God and desire to follow Him and spread the good news of His love? Our God is the creator of everything and His might and power and love knows no limit.
My Answers:
5.
A final warning to flee from “Babylon” for her own “plagues” (her own sins) will be given back to her in a double portion (think about Lot’s family fleeing Sodom and Gomorrah)
6.
It has not left God’s mind and attention. He has not forgotten nor has He chosen to diminish rightful judgment. (it doesn’t mean He forgot and then was later reminded)
7.
It is swift and fair, but strong. It has been delayed for a long time and continues to be, but it is not forgotten. Patiently God waits. God gives mankind the ability to select our own punishment by the acts we choose (remember the final plague before the Exodus).
The Notes are Good 