“And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:15)

“O thou that hearest prayer, unto thee shall all flesh come.” (Psalm 65:2)

There come times in each life when loneliness overshadows like a cloud, and no one is there to listen and provide counsel. Or perhaps there is some problem so personal and intimate that it seems unfitting or too embarrassing to share with anyone else.

One of the most familiar passages in the Bible—familiar because of its frequent appearance on Christmas cards and in Christmas sermons—is also one of the most profound and mysterious passages in the Bible. I am referring to Isaiah 9:6.

“Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them.” (Psalm 119:129)

And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, saying: "We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, The One who is and who was and who is to come, because You have taken Your great power and reigned." (Revelation 11:16-17)