Timing of the Latter Rain and National Sunday Law

The latter rain is poured out after the formation of the image to the beast, which occurs when a national Sunday law is enacted, and it continues during the period of fierce persecution that followsEVRR236+1. This spiritual refreshing is specifically designed to strengthen God's people to stand during the time of trouble and to empower the final proclamation of the third angel's messageLDE 201.1+1.

Timing and the National Sunday Law 📜

• The seal of redemption, which is closely associated with the final work of the Spirit, cannot be affixed until after the image of the beast is formed through the enactment of Sunday lawsEVRR236.

• The national Sunday law is the great test of loyalty that must take place before the final sealing and the full outpouring of the SpiritEVRR236+1.

• While the "commencement of the time of trouble" begins while Christ is still in the sanctuary, the latter rain comes during this short period to provide power for the loud cryHOMI August 1893, page 4.14+2.

The Relationship with Persecution 🛡️

• Fierce persecution actually falls upon believers during the time of the latter rain, rather than being entirely separate from itEVRR650.

• As the message swells to a loud cry under the power of the Spirit, it enrages the inhabitants of the earth, leading to increased hatred and the eventually the death decreeEW 279.1+2.

• The latter rain is the very influence that revives and strengthens the faithful to endure the "time of Jacob’s trouble" and pass safely through the final conflict Jeremiah 30:77BC 984.4+2.

• In the midst of this trouble, the faces of the saints will shine with the glory of God, even as they flee to desolate places to escape those seeking their destructionWLF 18.4+2.

Purpose of the Latter Rain 🌧️

• The primary purpose of this outpouring is to give power to the loud voice of the third angel and to prepare the saints to stand when the seven last plagues are poured outLDE 186.4+2.

• It serves as a "refreshing from the presence of the Lord," similar to the power seen at Pentecost but in a more abundant measure Acts 2:16-212MR 44.4+2.

• Under this power, miracles are wrought, and many who were previously bound by family or religious ties will eagerly lay hold of the truthEVRR650+2.

• This divine assistance is essential because human wisdom and philosophy will be worthless during the trial of the last days 1 Corinthians 2:4-5RH November 22, 1892, par. 8.

Preparation for the Blessing 🙌

• The refreshing will only be received by those who have obtained victory over every besetment, including pride, selfishness, and love of the worldExV 58.3+1.

• We are encouraged to keep our "vessels" clean and "right side up" now, as the time to be crucified to self is today, not in some future crisisLDE 194.1+2.

• Those who neglect the "former rain"—the daily work of sanctification—will not be able to recognize or receive the latter rain when it falls on hearts all around themPr 119.1+1.

• The Lord will have a pure and sanctified ministry prepared for this outpouring through the weeding out process that occurs when Sunday laws are enforcedLDE 179.2+1.

• By seeking the Lord with all the heart today, you can be fitted for the baptism of the Holy Spirit and stand unmoved during the coming storm Daniel 12:11SAT 60.1+2.