The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. (Revelation 1:1-2)
The Book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ at the end of the Bible is a powerful vision of the future that God gave to the Apostle John. The Roman government wanted John killed for being a part of the growing church. He was placed into a vat of boiling oil, and when they expected to hear screams, they instead saw his calm demeanor. John's body came out unscathed like the three Hebrew boys in the fiery furnace. Since they couldn’t kill him, at 92 years old, he was banished to the Isle of Patmos, a place of isolation and hardship, because the Roman government proposed that he die there alone.
Yet, amid terrible circumstances, John didn’t fall or quit; he got even closer to Jesus. During this time of hardship, he had an amazing encounter with Jesus, and he recorded all of those visions in what is now known as one of the most significant books in the Bible.
John showed us that no matter your age or the adversity coming against you, do not limit how God can use you. John’s testimony shows us that our later years can be filled with purposeful revelation, and sharing our testimony can change countless generations.
What profound revelation led John to victory over death? Countless times, he called himself the one Jesus loved. John’s understanding of God’s love for him allowed him to endure hardships joyfully.
Eventually, the Roman Emperor who exiled John died, and he was released to return to Ephesus. In his 90s, he wrote the epistles of the first, second, and third John. No matter your age or circumstance, God wants to use you in mighty ways.
Practical Application
Every stage of life has a purpose from God. Instead of viewing aging as a limitation, see it as an opportunity to share your wisdom and experiences with others. Think about the legacy you wish to leave and ask God for the strength to endure.