Can we see the signs?
There are 7 seals, 7 trumpets, and 7 bowls – each time things getting worse and worse. But notice – in the midst of the trumpets – that these are meant to be signs for people to see and turn around. Other than from drinking the bitter water, people are not dying. God is sending these signs so people can see and turn around.
These signs remind us of the plagues in Egypt. Those ancient people did not repent – will our people in the future change when God shows these signs?
In all of this, we must continue to pray. Prayer is shown in this chapter to be like incense rising up to heaven. Instead of being afraid of the future, we can use this time to stay close to God in prayer, and have His strength. Being close to Him also changes what we see – which increases the chances we will see His signs when they come!