Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

The Book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ (Revelation) is one of the most difficult books in all of the Bible to comprehend. Much of what is written is shrouded in symbolism and the order of events expected to occur (or have already taken place) before the return of Jesus Christ is a matter of dispute amongst believers.

Yes, you’ll find people who have written extensive commentaries about the book with clear (at least to them) outlines on how everything will unfold. I’m not saying that some people are not gifted with special insight on what various verses and passages mean, but I have never come across a single interpretation that convinces me that this is the way things are. I also know that I am not alone in feeling this way.

So, what then? Do we set aside the book due to our lack of knowledge? Absolutely not!

God knows that our understanding of Revelation isn’t full, but it should not keep us from reading the book. In fact, as this verse demonstrates a blessing awaits the person who reads the book and takes what it says to heart. No other book in the Bible offers such a promise!

I believe that God extended this blessing to believers in order to encourage them to continue to read the book and allow the Holy Spirit to open their minds to understand what has been written.

Far be it for me to say that a deeper understanding of Revelation is unattainable. As the Holy Spirit leads and as time marches on I believe that the church will understand much more fully in order to prepare for the days ahead. That in itself is a wonderful blessing as God uncovers all that is hidden through the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Remember this: a personal blessing awaits you!