(The following is the December 8 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Revelation 6 and pay close attention to verses 15-17.)

Given the wrath poured out on sinners in Revelation 6, one might expect many to turn from sin to Christ, but they do not. Instead, “the kings of the earth, the nobles, the generals, the rich, the powerful, and every slave and free person hid in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains” (v. 15). Rather than call on the name of the Lord, “they said to the mountains and to the rocks, ‘Fall on us and hide us from the face of the one seated on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb, because the great day of their wrath has come! And who is able to stand?’” (vv. 16-17). How could they be so hardhearted? They don’t need to call on mountains and rocks; they need to fall on their knees before God, admit their sin, and plead with the Lamb to forgive and save them. Yet they resist.

The Revelation 6 scenario is yet to happen, but a variation occurs daily. Many have heard the gospel but run from it. Faithful witnesses confront them with their sin and its consequences. Many unbelievers know enough to receive Christ if they only will, but they refuse. Perhaps pride or love for sin reigns in their heart, and they choose to continue their wicked ways. It’s hard for us to understand such hardness of heart, but perhaps we did the same for a while.

We don’t know how individuals will respond to the gospel when we share it. Some may scoff and reject the gospel and us, and many may show indifference. But some will come out from the caves and shadows and receive God’s gift of salvation. Continue being faithful in calling out to those hiding from God. Until Christ comes again, it is not too late.

Next Step:
Was there a time before coming to Christ when you hid from the gospel’s truth? Do you know someone who is doing so now? Pray for that person and an opportunity to share your faith and story.