Closer To Heaven
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4 June 2025 | What makes something wrong? In his favorably reviewed book The Righteous Mind, Jonathan Haidt challenges both the wisdom of the ages and our current ideas. Though a secular evolutionary psychologist, he argues that when we make moral decisions, instincts often triumph over reason. Haidt then presents real consequences for politics: for […] Source: https://atoday.org/atss-malcolm-russell-how-do-we-choose-whats-right-in-a-weird-culture/
Lesson 10: Upon Whom the Ends Have Come
10.5 The Pre-Advent Judgment
Before the Throne of the Son of Man – God’s Redemptive Judgment…………………………………………………………………
IntroductionIn the face of modern hustle and technological advances and the countless distractions of the 21st century, we tend to lose sight of weighty spiritual truths. Yet the Bible continually reminds us that a heavenly judgment is coming, in which God not only judges sin and wickedness but also leads His faithful followers into the righteousness of the Lamb. Daniel’s prophecy about the so-called “Pre-Second-Coming Judgment” (Daniel 7:9–10, 13–14, 22, 26–27) gives us a unique glimpse behind the veil of heaven, showing how God solves the problem of sin while simultaneously redeeming those who desire to live in covenant faithfulness to Him.
Our study today focuses on these passages in Daniel 7. We will answer the questions: What is the primary focus of this heavenly judgment? What verdict is ultimately rendered, and what does that tell us about God’s grand redemptive plan? Then we’ll consider what it means for each of us if we stand before God’s throne and have our deepest secrets laid bare.
At the end of our study, we invite you to walk with us through a fictional yet touching story set in the 21st century to see how this heavenly truth becomes active in everyday life. May our thorough look at Scripture and into our own hearts challenge us all to practice humility, grace, and trust as we await the day of final decision.
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Bible Study – Daniel 7:9–10, 13–14, 22, 26–27First, let’s read the key verses:
Daniel 7:9–10 (Luther 1912, translated into English)
9 “I watched till thrones were put in place, and the Ancient of Days sat. His clothing was white as snow, and the hair of His head was like pure wool; His throne was a fiery flame, and its wheels a burning fire.
10 A fiery stream issued and came forth from before Him; a thousand thousands served Him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him. The court was seated, and the books were opened.”
Daniel 7:13–14
13 “I was watching in the night visions, and behold, One like the Son of Man, coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, and they brought Him near before Him.
14 Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom the one which shall not be destroyed.”
Daniel 7:22
“‘Until the Ancient of Days came, and a decision was made in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came for the saints to possess the kingdom. Then the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people, the saints of the Most High. His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey Him.’”
Daniel 7:26–27
26 “‘But the court shall be seated, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and destroy it forever.
27 Then the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people, the saints of the Most High. Their kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey them.’”
Daniel 7:9–10: The Heavenly Court
Scene: “The Ancient of Days” (God the Father) sits on a blazing throne, surrounded by flaming wheels and a stream of fire. Before Him stand countless angelic beings—“thousands upon thousands” and “ten thousand times ten thousand.”
Meaning: This vivid imagery underscores God’s majesty and holiness. The throne symbolizes supreme authority, and the books being opened indicate records of human actions. This scene represents the first phase of the Pre-Second-Coming Judgment: God examines the earth while the saints (both angels and believers) witness this holy assembly.
Daniel 7:13–14: The Son of Man as Judge
Appearance of the Son of Man: Amidst the heavenly courtroom, One “like a Son of Man” (a messianic title pointing to Jesus) is brought before the Ancient of Days.
Dominion of the Son of Man: He receives “dominion, glory, and a kingdom,” to which all peoples and nations must bow. His rule is everlasting and indestructible. This conveys that the Judge is also the eternal King—Jesus combines perfect righteousness with sovereign authority.
Daniel 7:22: Righteousness for the Saints
“Righteousness is given to the saints”: Those called “the saints of the Most High”—believers in covenant with God—are granted righteousness in the judgment.
Everlasting Kingdom: God’s saints receive a kingdom that never fades. All earthly dominions must serve them. This shows God’s plan to both judge sin and restore His faithful into an eternal reign.
Daniel 7:26–27: The Defeat of All Kingdoms, the Saints’ Eternal Rule
End of Judgment: All rebellious earthly kingdoms are consumed and destroyed.
Inheritance of the Saints: The saints inherit the kingdom forever. They will reign—not by earthly standards but as members of God’s eternal Kingdom. Their dominion never ends, and all other rulers must obey them.
Primary Focus of the Judgment and the Ultimate Verdict
What is the main concern of this heavenly judgment?
The Pre-Second-Coming Judgment in Daniel 7 primarily addresses two groups:
All rebellious powers and unbelievers: Their deeds are revealed in the opened books, and they receive a final verdict of condemnation.
The faithful and saints: They are declared righteous, not because of their own merit but through the Messiah (the Son of Man), who “creates righteousness.”
Thus, the judgment fundamentally distinguishes every person’s true allegiance—loyalty to God or rebellion against Him. At the same time, it showcases God’s faithfulness to His covenant partners, as He “creates righteousness” for all who remain in close fellowship with Him.
What verdict is given at the end of the process?
By the conclusion of the heavenly trial:
All resisting kingdoms and dynasties are destroyed—their dominion is taken away forever.
The saints receive the eternal kingdom—those who have remained in Christ receive an indestructible inheritance.
All others must serve the Messiah and His faithful followers.
In other words, God’s faithful people reign in perfect justice, while all evil is definitively vanquished.
What does this say about God’s redemptive plan?
Judgment and redemption go hand in hand: God not only judges sin but ensures that His people enter His eternal Kingdom.
The Messiah as Mediator and Judge: Jesus stands at the center—He is the righteous One who appears for us and whose perfection is credited to us (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:30). His role in the judgment proves that only His righteousness can secure our salvation and communion with God.
Everlasting hope for covenant partners: Believers who remain faithful to Christ can face the judgment with confidence, knowing that they will inherit an everlasting Kingdom.
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Answers to the Questions
Question: Imagine you stand before the judgment seat, with all your secrets laid bare before our holy God. What is your only hope in that day of judgment?Your sole reliable hope in the judgment is the perfect righteousness of Jesus, the Son of Man. Because He stands as the righteous Judge on our behalf, all who place their faith and loyalty in Him will be declared righteous. Acknowledging that our own righteousness is insufficient, we can approach God’s throne with confidence only through Christ’s atoning blood and justice.
Indeed, “Blessed are they who keep the words of the prophecy of this book, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter through the gates into the city” (cf. Revelation 22:14).
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Spiritual PrinciplesGod’s absolute holiness demands that sin be judged.
Daniel’s imagery reminds us: God is too pure to overlook wrongdoing. His throne is surrounded by fire and light (Daniel 7:9), symbolizing His holiness and righteous wrath against sin.
The Messiah (Jesus) is the Mediator and Guarantee of Salvation.
As “one like a Son of Man,” He receives eternal dominion and bears our righteousness through the heavenly judgment (Daniel 7:13–14). Our faith in Him alters the verdict in our favor.
The choice belongs to each person: Faithfulness or rebellion.
Everyone must choose whether to serve Christ’s Kingdom or align with rebellious powers that will be destroyed (Daniel 7:26–27).
The opened books demonstrate God’s transparency.
God opens the books so that even the angels can witness how He executes justice (Daniel 7:10). Nothing remains hidden from His sight.
Hope and consolation for believers.
The promise of an everlasting Kingdom and eternal life with God gives us courage to persevere in faith, even when the world seems to crumble (Daniel 7:22).
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Application in Daily LifeMake a conscious choice for Christ today
– In every area of life—family, work, community—ask yourself: “Will I trust and obey Jesus, regardless of the cost?”
Confess your own imperfections regularly
– Like Joseph, recognize that your own righteousness is insufficient. Daily acknowledge your need for Jesus’s righteousness.
Act justly and show mercy
– Knowing you have received grace, extend grace to others. Instead of judging, show compassion and honesty (Romans 14:10).
Pray fervently for others
– Just as Abraham interceded for Sodom and Gomorrah, intercede for neighbors, friends, and even nations, that they might experience God’s grace.
Keep your eyes on heaven as your source of strength
– Focusing on your eternal inheritance (Colossians 3:1–4) helps you endure trials with serenity, knowing that everything temporal falls away before the ultimate Kingdom.
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ConclusionDaniel 7’s “Pre-Second-Coming Judgment” reveals God’s righteous way of both condemning sin and honoring the righteous. Jesus, the “Son of Man,” stands at the center as Mediator, Judge, and King. The solemn image of the opened books reminds us that God’s divine knowledge and holiness leave no wrongdoing unpunished. Yet His grace ensures that everyone who believes in the Messiah and lives faithfully in His name will be found worthy to “reign forever and ever.”
This heavenly judgment is not some distant fantasy but a present reality that calls us today to humility, repentance, and unwavering trust. Just as Joseph lived in the steadfast hope that God would bring His people back to the promised land, so we may live now, confident in Jesus’s righteousness and awaiting His return.
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Thought of the Day“God judges with perfect justice; in that justice, He declares righteous all who trust in Christ.”
When we embrace this wonderful truth, we will be motivated to live each day consciously in Christ’s righteousness and keep our eyes fixed on the eternal inheritance awaiting us.
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Illustration – Leonard’s Journey Before the Heavenly ThroneIt is 2025. Leonard, a 42-year-old engineer in the bustling city of “Neo-Canaan,” juggles meetings, project deadlines, and family responsibilities. One Friday, his mentor, Pastor Samuel, asks him to study Daniel 7 over the coming Sabbath because the church will discuss the subject of the heavenly judgment that day. Even though Leonard’s life is mostly occupied by work and daily concerns, this invitation pulls him out of routine and stirs his heart.
During the week, Leonard focuses on a solar energy project but cannot shake the unease in his soul. Repeatedly he opens his Bible to Daniel 7 and reads about the throne of the Ancient of Days, the fiery stream, the books opened, and the coming of the “Son of Man.” The vision of a judgment that brings righteousness to the saints and destroys all rebellious kingdoms haunts him. He wonders: “Will I stand before this heavenly tribunal? I have neglected my wife, lied at work, and been lax in prayer.”
On Saturday morning Leonard enters the church building. The sanctuary is filled with people, as the congregation meets each Sabbath. Pastor Samuel greets everyone and begins preaching from Daniel 7:
“Dear brothers and sisters, today we behold how God reveals the Pre-Second-Coming Judgment. The Ancient of Days sits on a flaming throne, surrounded by countless angels. Then the Son of Man—our Lord Jesus—comes before the Ancient of Days and is given eternal dominion, glory, and kingdom—an everlasting kingdom that cannot be destroyed. All who remain true to His name will receive righteousness and never be removed from that kingdom.”
Leonard listens intently. As Pastor Samuel quotes:
“… and the judgment was set, and the books were opened…” (Daniel 7:10),
Leonard feels his heart grow heavy, as each word reminds him of his own shortcomings.
After the sermon, Leonard remains seated until Pastor Samuel gently invites him:
“Leonard, you seem troubled. Would you like to talk about it?”
During the subsequent time of prayer, Leonard confesses:
“Lord, I have neglected my wife, been dishonest to my boss, and allowed my prayer life to wither. How can I stand before Your throne when all my sins are laid bare?”
Pastor Samuel places a hand on his shoulder:
“Leonard, remember: Jesus, the Son of Man, is also your Judge. He has borne your sin before you ever stand before Him. If you remain in His righteousness, you will stand in the judgment.”
In the days that follow, Leonard’s life begins to change. He starts giving his wife intentional attention each evening—preferring walks together over watching TV. He arrives at church unusually early on the next Sabbath, stands before the church elders, and opens his heart:
“I have lied at work and neglected my family. I humbly ask for your forgiveness.”
The church leadership prays over him, and Leonard feels a tremendous burden lift. He recalls Pastor Samuel’s words:
“Jesus stands in your place and establishes righteousness for all who believe in Him.”
In his daily life, Leonard now applies the lessons he has learned:
He meets with his boss, confesses his past dishonesty, and pledges to be transparent and faithful from now on.
Each evening, he reads a psalm with his wife, rebuilding their relationship on truth and love.
On Saturday mornings, as he heads to church, he prays,
“Jesus, teach me to walk in Your righteousness.”
Three years later, on another Sabbath, the congregation gathers to pray for persecuted Christians worldwide. Leonard reflects on Daniel 7:26–27:
“Then the dominion, the kingdom, and the greatness of all kingdoms under heaven shall be given to the saints of the Most High; His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey Him.”
He senses that Jesus’s return draws nearer. Leonard lifts his hands toward heaven and whispers:
“Lord, I await You. You are my Judge and my Savior. I trust in Your righteousness.”
Later that evening, Leonard writes in his Sabbath journal:
Thought of the Day: “God judges with perfect justice; in that justice, He declares righteous all who believe in Christ.”
Prayer: “Thank You, Lord, for sending Jesus. In Him, I find forgiveness and eternal life.”
Leonard’s story demonstrates that contemplating the heavenly judgment in Daniel 7 forced him to face his own sin, yet Jesus’s grace—who stands as the Son of Man before the Ancient of Days—granted him peace and renewed strength to change. Although the judgment itself is absolute, all who trust in Christ may live in His righteousness today and look forward with hope to His eternal Kingdom.
June 5, 2025
DAILY BIBLE READING
Genesis 50 – Reconciliation and Hope: Joseph’s Final Journey
A dignified farewell, healing forgiveness, and trust in God’s promise══════════════════════════════════════════════
Bible Text – Genesis 50 (KJV)1 And Joseph fell upon his father’s face, and wept upon him, and kissed him.
2 And Joseph commanded his servants the physicians to embalm his father: and the physicians embalmed Israel.
3 And forty days were fulfilled for him; for so are fulfilled the days of those which are embalmed: and the Egyptians mourned for him threescore and ten days.
4 And when the days of his mourning were past, Joseph spake unto the house of Pharaoh, saying, If now I have found grace in your eyes, speak, I pray you, in the ears of Pharaoh, saying,
5 My father made me swear, saying, Lo, I die: in my grave which I have digged for me in the land of Canaan, there shalt thou bury me. Now therefore let me go up, I pray thee, and bury my father, and I will come again.
6 And Pharaoh said, Go up, and bury thy father, according as he made thee swear.
7 And Joseph went up to bury his father: and with him went up all the servants of Pharaoh, the elders of his house, and all the elders of the land of Egypt,
8 And all the house of Joseph, and his brethren, and his father’s house: only their little ones, and their flocks, and their herds, they left in the land of Goshen.
9 And there went up with him both chariots and horsemen: and it was a very great company.
10 And they came to the threshingfloor of Atad, which is beyond Jordan, and there they mourned with a great and very sore lamentation: and he made a mourning for his father seven days.
11 And when the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, saw the mourning in the floor of Atad, they said, This is a grievous mourning to the Egyptians: wherefore the name of it was called Abelmizraim, which is beyond Jordan.
12 And his sons did unto him according as he commanded them:
13 For his sons carried him into the land of Canaan, and buried him in the cave of the field of Machpelah, which Abraham bought with the field for a possession of a buryingplace of Ephron the Hittite, before Mamre.
14 And Joseph returned into Egypt, he, and his brethren, and all that went up with him to bury his father, after he had buried his father.
15 And when Joseph’s brethren saw that their father was dead, they said, Joseph will peradventure hate us, and will certainly requite us all the evil which we did unto him.
16 And they sent a messenger unto Joseph, saying, Thy father did command before he died, saying,
17 So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him.
18 And his brethren also went and fell down before his face; and they said, Behold, we be thy servants.
19 And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?
20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.
21 Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.
22 And Joseph dwelt in Egypt, he, and his father’s house: and Joseph lived an hundred and ten years.
23 And Joseph saw Ephraim’s children of the third generation: the children also of Machir the son of Manasseh were brought up upon Joseph’s knees.
24 And Joseph said unto his brethren, I die: and God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land unto the land which he sware to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.
25 And Joseph took an oath of the children of Israel, saying, God will surely visit you, and ye shall carry up my bones from hence.
26 So Joseph died, being an hundred and ten years old: and they embalmed him, and he was put in a coffin in Egypt.
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IntroductionThe final chapter of Genesis marks the conclusion of a compelling family saga filled with guilt, separation, forgiveness, and hope. Jacob’s death, Joseph’s response, and his reconciliation with his brothers offer profound insights into divine principles: honoring one’s parents, healing old wounds, and clinging to God’s promises—even in the face of death. This chapter not only brings a historical story to a close but also provides a vivid model of faith and grace.
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Commentary1.A Respectful Burial for Jacob (verses 1–14)
Joseph lovingly falls on his father’s face, weeps over him, and kisses him—an expression of deep filial devotion. He arranges a respectful funeral: Egyptian physicians anoint Jacob’s body, the Egyptians mourn for seventy days, Joseph seeks Pharaoh’s permission, and then leads a massive procession back to Canaan for the burial. Bringing Jacob to the land of promise underscores how the patriarchs valued the hope of inheriting God’s promised land.
2.The Brothers’ Fear (verses 15–17)
After Jacob’s death, Joseph’s brothers are seized by fear. They worry Joseph might bear a grudge and punish them for their earlier cruelty. Out of desperation they say, “Your father commanded before he died, ‘Forgive your brothers…’ ” Whether Jacob truly said this or if it’s their own plea, their appeal reveals how guilt can weigh on hearts for years.
3.Joseph’s Response—Forgiveness from God’s Perspective (verses 18–21)
Joseph’s reply stands as one of Scripture’s most profound statements on forgiveness:
“Do not be afraid of me. Am I in the place of God? … You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”
He recognizes that God’s plan transcended the wrong done to him. His reaction is not only nobly human but deeply spiritual—he reassures his brothers, promises to provide for them and their children, and speaks kindly to them.
4.Joseph’s Final Words—A Glance into the Future (verses 22–26)
Joseph remains in Egypt, lives to see Ephraim’s great-grandchildren, and reminds his family of God’s promise: God will one day bring Israel out of Egypt into the land He swore to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He makes them swear to carry his bones when that time comes—an enduring testimony of his faith, pointing forward to the eventual return to Canaan. His death, anointing, and placement in a coffin are not an end but a witness to hope.
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SummaryGenesis 50 brings together key biblical themes: honor, forgiveness, responsibility, and faith. Joseph mourns his father with dignity, fully reconciles with his brothers, and dies confidently trusting in God’s faithfulness. The story closes with a forward look at what God will still accomplish.
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Message for Us TodayHonor your parents—beyond death. Gratitude, respect, and loyalty are enduring values.
Forgive wholeheartedly—even if you have been hurt. Joseph teaches that genuine forgiveness trusts God’s overarching plan rather than human justice.
Cling to God’s promises—especially when they seem unfulfilled. Joseph believed God would deliver His people and lived (and died) in that hope.
God’s purposes far exceed our wounds. What people intend for evil, God can turn for good.
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June 1 – 7, 2025 WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING Ellen G. White │ Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 8 After the Flood Read online here
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IntroductionThe flood was over. The waters receded, and the ark came to rest. But life after the flood was not simply a continuation—it was a complete new beginning. In Chapter 8 of Patriarchs and Prophets, we read how God not only saves but also leads, protects, and grants new promises. Noah, the faithful preacher of righteousness, stands as a shining example of obedience, gratitude, and trust—even in times of deep uncertainty. The world that awaited him was no longer the same—but God had not changed: faithful, powerful, and full of grace.
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Commentary1. Faith in the Test (The Months in the Ark)
The five months spent in the ark were a hard trial of patience. Without knowing when the waters would recede, Noah remained steadfast. He did not doubt God’s leading. Faith carried him and his family through the darkness.
Lesson: True trust is shown in the silence of waiting. God’s hand guides even when we cannot see it.
2. The Ordered Return (The Birds and Patience)
Noah sent out the raven and the dove in search of a sign. But he did not act impatiently—he left the ark only when God explicitly commanded him.
Lesson: Even when we see signs, our decisions must be guided by God’s word, not by circumstances alone.
3. The First Altar (Gratitude and Sacrifice)
Before he built a home for himself, Noah built an altar for God. He offered clean animals—an expression of his faith in the coming sacrifice of Christ.
Lesson: True gratitude first honors the One who gave everything—even when our own resources are scarce.
4. God’s Response: The New Covenant
God smelled the “pleasing aroma” of the sacrifice and declared a new covenant: there would be no more global flood. The rainbow became the sign of this covenant.
Lesson: God uses visible signs to assure us of His invisible faithfulness. His promises are for all generations.
5. A Changed Earth, A Changed Lifestyle
The earth was completely altered—landscape and ecosystem. God permitted the eating of meat as an adaptation to the new reality.
Lesson: God’s care and instructions adapt to human situations, but His moral will remains unchanged.
6. Hidden Treasures and Judgment
The flood buried not only bodies but also human pride, wealth, and idolatry. From this came coal, oil, and ore—evidence of God’s judgment but also of His mercy.
Lesson: What man abused, God transformed into a testimony of His power and justice.
7. Future Judgments: Fire Instead of Water
As water once cleansed the earth, so fire will purify it at the end. Volcanoes, earthquakes, and disasters are forerunners of Christ’s return.
Lesson: God’s warnings are not meant to frighten but to call us to repentance—His grace protects His people.
8. God’s Protection for His Own
Just as Noah was safe in the ark, God’s people will be protected by His power at the end. Psalm 91 becomes a personal promise amid chaos.
Lesson: The safe place is not geographical, but spiritual—under God’s wings.
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SummaryAfter the flood, Noah stepped into a radically changed world. But in the midst of death and destruction, his heart remained focused on God. His obedience, gratitude, and faith make him a model for all generations. And God responded with grace, promise, and protection. The rainbow stretching across the sky and throne remains the eternal sign: God’s covenant stands. And though future judgments will come, He will preserve those who trust in Him.
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Message for Us TodayIn a world again marked by uncertainty, disasters, and moral decay, God calls us to live like Noah: with faith, obedience, and gratitude. When all that we know is shaken, we can rest assured:
God’s hand is still at the helm.
His covenant still stands. The rainbow in the sky is more than a natural phenomenon—it is a testimony of His faithfulness. And just as Noah was preserved in the midst of judgment, so we too can know:
The righteous are safe—not because they are strong, but because they trust in God.
So then, let us build altars of gratitude before we build houses. Let us give before we take. Let us believe before we see.
For the Lord, your Redeemer, says:
“My kindness shall not depart from you.” (Isaiah 54:10)
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/5-06-2025-genesis-chapter-50-believe-his-prophets/
June 5, 2025 | When the Light Comes Back On | HEART ANCHOR
How God Illuminates Your Darkness – Even When You Don’t Understand It
Luke 6:44⸻
Bible Text“For you light my lamp; the LORD my God illumines my darkness.”
– Psalm 18:28
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Devotional & StoryHave you ever felt like you’re sitting in darkness inside? Everything seems heavy, confusing, or meaningless. Maybe there are worries, fears, or just a sense of emptiness. David—who wrote this psalm—knew those moments. Yet he declares in the midst of that darkness: “God illuminates my darkness.”
What does that mean? And what does it have to do with you today?
Lena sat on her bed. It was Friday night; a storm was raging outside, and her parents were out. Rain pounded against the windows, and thoughts thundered even louder in her mind. She had flunked her math test, argued with her best friend, and felt like her prayers were bouncing off the ceiling.
Suddenly, everything went black.
A power outage.
“Great,” she muttered. Not even her phone had any battery left. Just darkness. And silence.
She fumbled through the room, stubbed her toe on the bed frame, tripped over her backpack. Finally, she found a small candle and a lighter. The weak flame flickered. Suddenly, the room felt different—smaller, quieter, warmer. Not everything was visible—but enough that she no longer felt afraid.
Then she remembered a verse she’d heard once in children’s church:
“The LORD illuminates my darkness.”
She whispered it under her breath. And somehow, there was more than just the candle—there was peace. Not because everything was fixed, but because God was there. In her darkness. Right in the middle of her questions.
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Thoughts on the DevotionalDavid writes this psalm while on the run—he had experienced real darkness: fear, persecution, uncertainty.
Yet he declares: “God is my light.” Not: “He took away all my problems immediately,” but: “He did not leave me alone in my darkness.”
Light means: hope. Direction. Warmth.
→ It doesn’t always change your circumstances—but it changes your heart.
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What Does This Mean for You?You don’t have to be strong all the time. If you feel darkness—tell God.
You are allowed to pray even when you don’t feel anything. Sometimes the light begins with a small flame.
You may believe: God sees you. Even when you can’t see Him.
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Suggestions for Today
What is your current darkness?
Talk to God about it—honestly and directly.
What could be a light for you?
A song, a prayer, a Bible passage, a conversation?
Tonight, pray this sentence:
“Lord, illuminate my darkness.”
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Prayer“God, sometimes I can’t see anything anymore. Everything feels heavy. But Your Word says that You can make my darkness light. Please come with Your light into my heart. I need You. Amen.”
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/june-5-2025-when-the-light-comes-back-on-heart-anchor-youth-devotional/
Faith often leads to unexpected opportunities. For a young teen, her decision to honor the Sabbath became a testimony to her classmates and professors. After attending the Christ for Europe series, she fulfilled her dream of being baptized at youth camp. Similarly, Yuri, a 31-year-old from Ukraine, was led to a life-changing decision through an encounter with a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, which sparked his journey into Bible studies and baptism. Witness how God leads people of all ages to stand firm and walk in truth. Don’t forget to like, share and subscribe for more stories of hope and faith. #AWR360 #ChristforEurope Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nknZYyrBGg
Someone needs to hear your story. Have you seen God change a curse to a blessing in your life? If someone's story speaks to you today, let them know! We can't wait to see what God's doing in your life! Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIkRh7CUI0w
Join the Hit the Mark panel as they discuss Sabbath School Lesson 10 – Upon Whom the Ends Have Come. It’s the fastest hour of the week!
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(0)Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/upon-whom-the-ends-have-come-hit-the-mark-sabbath-school/
4 June 2025 | As reported by BakersfieldNow on May 11, The Bakersfield Police Department’s bomb squad was dispatched to the Adventist Health Specialty Bakersfield on Sunday following the discovery of a small destructive device inside the building. According to the police, a security guard found the device and promptly removed it from the premises. […] Source: https://atoday.org/bomb-squad-called-to-adventist-health-specialty-hospital-in-california/
Daily Lesson for Thursday 5th of June 2025
The description of judgment found in Daniel 7:1-28 gives us a glimpse behind the veil—to an awe-inspiring opportunity to see how God is resolving the problem of sin while still redeeming those who wish to live in a covenant relationship with Him.
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There is little question that the human race is judged by God. Ecclesiastes 12:14 assures us that “God will bring every work into judgment” (NKJV), and Paul reminds us that we do not need to judge each other, because “we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ” (Romans 14:10). God, of course, does not need records to know who is saved or lost, but angels—who have been examining the plan of salvation all along (1 Peter 1:12)—would naturally have questions. They were witnesses to the rebellion of Satan and saw a third of heaven’s angels expelled from heaven (Revelation 12:4)—and now God is bringing us into His presence. God opens the books and allows the saints to see everything.
The story of Abraham’s pleading for Sodom and Gomorrah—a type of the judgment—offers us some important insight into judgment. The sins of Sodom were obviously being investigated; God mentions that the wickedness of the city had given it such a reputation that the outcry against it was great (Genesis 18:20). But it was not only Sodom and Gomorrah that were investigated prior to their destruction. God also opened the door for Abraham to study whether or not God was acting righteously in His decision to destroy the wicked.
Meanwhile, who appears amid the heavenly judgment, in Daniel 7:1-28, but “the Son of man,” Jesus (Daniel 7:13; see also Matthew 20:28), whose appearance is the only reason why this judgment is “made in favor of the saints of the Most High” (Daniel 7:22, NKJV). His perfect righteousness alone gets His people through judgment.
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Imagine standing in judgment with all your secrets exposed before our Holy God. What is your only hope at that time of judgment? (See Friday’s study.) |
(0)Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/25b-10-the-pre-advent-judgment/
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