Revelation 4:1-11
Introduction
John, the Apostle, knew what it meant to walk closely with Jesus. He witnessed miracles, healing, and resurrection. By the time we meet him in Revelation, Jesus has ascended, and John is older and imprisoned. Yet in the midst of hardship, he looks up and sees a door to heaven. You may feel like you’re in a dark season this Mother’s Day. But if you lift your eyes, there is always a door into God’s presence, peace, and perspective. He is with you even in the hard things.
John saw a throne: unmoved, unshaken, unaffected by the world’s chaos. That throne still stands today. As mothers, knowing that God sees our children and remains sovereign is comforting. The early church faced immense resistance from the culture, just like many moms feel today, but there is still a throne, and it is still occupied.
And the One on the throne is not passive; He is present. In the Middle East, kings sat when the battle had been won. God sitting on the throne is not a picture of indifference but victory. Even when your marriage feels fragile, your child is wandering, or your heart is heavy with disappointment, there is still a King reigning with authority and compassion. He hasn’t forgotten you.
John also saw a rainbow encircling the throne. This was a reminder of God’s promise in Genesis to never forsake His creation. After the flood, that rainbow was God’s hug to humanity, declaring that mercy would triumph over judgment. That same mercy is extended to you today. No matter your past, His grace reaches deep and lifts high. There’s nothing so broken that His love can’t restore.
Finally, John noticed a sea of glass before the throne. In ancient times, the sea represented chaos. But before God’s throne, it is still, subdued, crystal clear. Every storm and dark threat must bow in His presence. The battle may feel intense here on earth, but take heart: the throne is secure, the King is victorious, and His mercy is for you.
Getting Started
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What is the fondest memory that you have of your mother or a mother figure?
- What’s one prayer you consistently pray over your children or loved ones?
Let’s Get Personal
- When life feels heavy, what helps you “look up” and refocus on God’s presence?
- What does it mean to you personally that God is still on the throne?
- What image or promise from Scripture gives you peace when everything feels uncertain?
Take the Next Step
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How can you respond differently to chaos or uncertainty this week, knowing that God’s throne is unshakable?
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Pray and ask God to show you where you’ve been relying on your own strength instead of resting in His victory and sovereignty.
- Want to dig deeper? Take a look at the following passages: Revelation 4:1-11; Colossians 3:1-3; Psalm 46:10; Genesis 9; John 4.
Renew Your Mind
“Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created.”
– Revelation 4:11
