Wednesday, 21^st May 2025

Alex Buabeng-Korsah

TOPIC: THE RIDER ON THE PALE HORSE

THEME SCRIPTURE: “Behold, a pale horse! And he who sat on it had the name Death." (Revelation 6:8)

PREPARATORY QUESTIONS:

1. What is the significance of the pale horse and its rider?

The word “pale” here is the same Greek word translated “green” in Mark 6:39 and Revelation 8:7 and 9:4. Green is the colour of grass. When this colour appears on the face, it signifies either sickness or death. And hence the name of the one who sits on this pale horse is called Death. John beheld, and power was given to this rider over a quarter of the world’s population. Death will wipe out many through hunger, by the sword, and accidents of death.

The pale horse's ghastly hue now stains our world. COVID-19's 7 million global deaths were but nothing compared to what is coming. This will be the beginning of birth pains" [or sorrows] (Matt 24:8). 

Jesus, in Matthew 24, warned that the fourth sign, "pestilences", would precede His return - the Greek loimos meaning devastating plagues. From the Black Death to AIDS to novel viruses, each outbreak echoes Revelation's grim rider.  

When the bubonic plague ravaged 14th-century Europe, killing nearly 50 million of Europe’s population, Luther wrote: "We should prepare for death before the dying time comes." The pale horse exposes our delusion of control. Yet in nursing homes and ICUs worldwide, we've seen the faithful die singing - their hope outlasting their last breath.

Precious one, our resurrection with Christ has become our antidote to Death’s power.

Beloved, difficult times lie ahead, and if there is any investment to be made toward that time, it is this:  

First, store up treasure: Not in retirement accounts but in souls won (Matt 6:20). Additionally, embrace your mission: Live purposefully. "The night is coming when no one can work" (John 9:4). Lastly, share: Share the Balm of Gilead. Christ alone heals sin-sick souls (Jer 8:22).  

To the fearful: Your lifespan is in God's hands (Job 14:5). Live ready, not anxious. Jesus is coming for a bride that is without spot or wrinkle, cleansed and holy, having no blemish (Eph 5:27). Live prepared.

But to the wayward: The pale horse spares none, but the Great Physician offers full pardon today. If only you will believe in the Lord Jesus, and confess with your mouth that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved (Rom 10:9).

The pale horse rides, but the Resurrection Rider follows! Tomorrow isn't promised. Who needs to hear about Christ from you TODAY? The pale horse gallops nearer, but morning approaches when "death shall be no more" (Rev 21:4).  Live prepared.

God bless you more.

FURTHER READING – Revelation 6

Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so.

QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:

1. What would be your fate if you should die today?

2. Are you prepared for life after death?

PRAYER

Lord of Life, shatter our death-denying illusions. Make us bold witnesses while daylight remains. Anchor us in Your empty tomb's promise. Amen.

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

1 Samuel 29-31; Psalm 136; 1 Corinthians 5