Scripture

But even as he spoke, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, ”This is my beloved Son, who brings me great joy. Listen to him.”

Observation

Jesus takes Peter, James and John up a high mountain to be alone. Jesus’ appearance is transformed, and His face shines like the sun. Moses and Elijah also appear.

Peter wants to build some shelters as memorials, but a cloud overshadows them and the Father speaks from the cloud. “This is my beloved Son.”

The disciple fall to the ground in fear. Jesus comes and touches them. He then tells them not to tell anyone about this event.

Application

This event, especially the voice of the Father speaking from the cloud, was overwhelming for the disciples. They were terrified, although they should have known that Jesus would keep them safe .

Sometimes getting a revelation from God can be very terrifying. We often think of the Holy Spirit as being gentle like a dove, and He is. But sometimes He manifests as a wild wind and tongues of fire.

I remember one lady who came to me and said that she had had an encounter with the Lord in which she experienced his wrath. Even though she had been serving the Lord for many years,it was in her own strength, and not from submission to God.

We need to be open to what the Lord wants to show us and teach us. Sometimes that will stir up unpleasant emotions, but it will always be good for us.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, please reveal your true nature to me as you did for the disciples on on the Mount of Transfiguration. Amen.