Day 354: Revelation 4:6b–11

The 24 elders fall down before the One seated on the throne, worship the One who lives forever and ever, [and] cast their crowns before the throne (v. 10).

Much of humanity’s trouble stems from our naturally insatiable self-centeredness. We often see ourselves as the center of the universe and tend to describe all other components in reference to us rather than God. The human psyche almost invariably processes incoming information in relationship to its own ego. For example, if the news forecasts an economic slump, the natural hearer automatically processes what it could mean to self, how it affects me, my family, my situation in life.

While this response is natural, in perpetual practice this self-absorption is miserable. In some ways our egocentrism is a secret lust for omnipotence. We want to be our own god and have all power.

Our first reaction upon hearing this bit of truth might be to deny it—that we’ve never had a desire to be God. But how often do we take immediate responsibility for handling most of the problems in our midst? How often do we try changing the people we know and feeding our control addiction with the drug of manipulation? Simply put, we try to play God, and frankly, it’s exhausting.

But thankfully, those of us who are redeemed are also given what 1 Corinthians 2:16 calls the “mind of Christ.” Life takes on a far more accurate estimation and perspective when we learn to view it increasingly through the vantage point of the One who spoke it into existence.

Think of some of your greatest challenges. Picture them. Then go back and stamp the words “before the throne” in front each of these challenges.

The heart of prayer is moving these very kinds of tests and trials from the insecurities and uncertainties of earth to the throne of God. Only then can they be viewed with dependable accuracy and boundless hope. Close your eyes and do your best to picture the glorious seraphim never ceasing to cry, “Holy, holy, holy!” Imagine the lightning emitting from the throne, and hear the rumblings and the thunder. Picture the elders overwhelmed by God’s worthiness, casting their crowns before the throne. Approach the throne of grace with confidence, with eyes on Him, not on yourself. Our God is huge! Our God is able!