Revelation Chapter 9

Revelation Chapter 9
“The fifth angel sounded his trumpet, and I saw a star that had fallen from the sky to the earth. The star was given the key to the shaft of the Abyss. When he opened the Abyss, smoke rose from it like the smoke from a gigantic furnace. The sun and sky were darkened by the smoke from the Abyss. And out of the smoke locusts came down on the earth and were given power like that of scorpions of the earth. They were told not to harm the grass of the earth or any plant or tree, but only those people who did not have the seal of Good on their foreheads.”
Revelations 9:1-4, NIV
 
A Prayer Over Our Children
Oh God, place Your seal upon my child’s forehead so when trials come, she is not harmed. Just as the abyss opens and locusts are released upon the earth, I ask that You will be her refuge and strength. When death comes and fire fills the air, may You protect her. Give her a heart of repentance, I plead so she may be washed clean from sin. Oh God, may You keep her from idolatry and murder while You prevent sorcery and sexual immorality from possessing a foothold. Hear my cry, oh God. Amen.
 
Lay it Down
 
     Legs pounded, arms pumped, and hands fisted. Sweat carved tributaries down my forehead. I was a mess. On the treadmill I ran, fueled by an aching plea. Take not Your holy presence from me, I entreated, Draw near me, oh God. Do not leave me nor forsake me. Faster my legs flew. Short and ragged I panted, straining forward with every muscle and fiber. Deep groanings accompanied my every breath.

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