SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer

Scripture: Revelation 13:16 He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead,
17 so that no-one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name.
18 This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man’s number. His number is 666.

Observation: I once thought that receiving such a mark would be so repulsive to people that it would be almost universally rejected. However technology has progressed at an amazing rate. Several years back I was able to draw a lost dog into my car which I took to the local veterinarian. They ran a scanner over its neck to see if there was an ID chip. From that chip they were able to read the dog’s name, address and date of last shots. Some credit cards now come with similar chips. I now believe that receiving a mark/chip to buy and sell will become so accepted that those who refuse will be considered the “crazy” ones.

Application: Although I enjoy technology, I must keep aware that it can be used for both good and evil. The cell phone gives me freedom to communicate, but it also leaves a record of my movements with each tower it pings. The GPS system in my car can help locate it if it is stolen, or provide directions for needed help; but it can also be used by someone trying to track my movements.

Prayer: Lord, you have had total personal knowledge of me since even from before I was born; but you are loving and holy and I can trust you to use that knowledge for me and not against me. Amen.

September 8: Jeremiah 42-44; Psalm 48; Revelation 13

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!