“DO NOT HARM THE OIL AND WINE”

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Point of Inspiration: Devotionals for Personal and Corporate Worship

by Robert D. Pace

The book of Revelation describes what scholars call the Apocalypse — a stretch of seven years when God issues righteous judgments upon a rebellious world. Since Christ’s death on the Cross, God’s grace has appealed for man’s repentance, but during the Tribulation, the Lord will unleash judgments upon a generation much like Noah’s — depraved and unrepentant. Moreover, the Four Horsemen will gallop upon the nations, meteorites will descend from the heavens, earthquakes will rattle from beneath, and the seas will decimate cities on the shorelines. Mankind’s rebellion has picked a fight with God, and he’s outmatched for the showdown! But with apocalyptic fury punishing the wicked, God’s mercy interrupts to demand restraint! He commands an angel, “Do not harm the oil and the wine” (Revelation 6:6).

It’s interesting that Scripture uses “oil and wine” to symbolize that which is essential for living (Deuteronomy 7:13; Hosea 2:8); it shows how Jehovah uses it to supply man’s basic needs; in the Parable of the Good Samaritan the benevolent stranger used “oil and wine” for the beaten traveler’s recovery. Thus, when Revelation depicts God’s wrath poured forth in vengeance yet preserving the “oil and wine,” it discloses God’s goodness pulling for man’s survival.

What about you? Are you plagued by transgressions you sense disqualify you from God’s blessings? Do you fear sin has forfeited your legal right to claim your divine calling and purpose? When such temptations test you, always remember the testimony of Scripture: the ancient Israelites did not claim the Promised Land or secure God’s blessings based on their “righteousness or the uprightness of heart” (Deuteronomy 9:4-5). No, the core of man is defiled by sin. But God, in his fulness, radiates with grace, goodness, mercy, faithfulness, and love (Exodus 34). The Word of God is clear: God grants mercy for the sake of his Name, even for you! So lift high your head, God has preserved the “oil and wine” and he’s ready to exalt his mercy over judgment!