“And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name”
(Revelation 14:11 NKJV)

our eternal destiny is chosen by the life we live

This verse, though unpleasant, is a helpful reminder that …

1. We will survive our physical death. Some think (hope) the dead are annihilated. Others seek solace in soul sleep (wishing for an unconscious eternity where all is forgotten and unknown). Neither is true. Both the rich man and Lazarus “survived” death, living beyond the grave, each according to the choices he made in his earthly life, Luke 16:19-31.
2. God has plainly warned that every accountable person will face Him in judgment. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad” — 2 Corinthians 5:10.
3. We are accountable to the Ruler of the universe. “So then each of us shall give account of himself to God” — Romans 14:12. Lawbreakers may escape earthly punishment. We cannot run, much less, hide: no one will escape God’s judgment.
4. Torment awaits those who worship the beast and his image, and receive the mark of his name. Revelation 14:10 elaborates: “he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb.” Turning away from God is the most terrible thing one can do.
5. All of this demonstrates that God respects our free will. He will never force us to turn to Him. We choose our destiny.
6. Revelation 14:13 offers the blessed alternative: “Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.” The “blessed dead” have no regrets. Does this speak of you?

– Rick Duggin