Understanding the Final Time of Trouble and Deliverance

The "time of trouble such as never was" refers to a final period of intense national calamity and mental anguish that opens upon the world following the close of human probationGP 93.1+2. This crisis begins when Michael stands up and Jesus ceases His intercessory work in the heavenly sanctuary Daniel 12:1GP 93.1+1.

The Nature and Phases of the Trouble 🛡️

This unique ordeal is divided into specific phases that test the faith and integrity of God's people:

• The Little Time of Trouble: A short period occurring just before the plagues are poured out, characterized by the "shaking time" and the removal of the restraining power of God from the earthLDE 143.2+2. During this time, the "image to the beast" is enforced through decrees of imprisonment and death for those who honor the true SabbathLDE 257.3+2.

• The Great Time of Trouble: This commences after probation closes, when the seven last plagues fall upon the wicked who are no longer sheltered by divine grace Revelation 16:1-21GP 93.1+2.

• The Time of Jacob’s Trouble: A specific period of mental anguish where the saints, surrounded by enemies, feel a deep sense of their unworthiness and fear that they have not repented of every sinGP 93.1+2. Like Jacob wrestling with the angel, they prevail through persistent, agonizing prayer Genesis 32:24-28GP 93.1+1.

The Experience of the Faithful 🙏

The people of God must undergo a preparation that many are currently too indolent to obtainGC 622.4+1.

• Standing Without a Mediator: When the decree is voiced that the holy shall remain holy, the saints must stand before a holy God without a middleman to plead their cause Revelation 22:11EW 71.2+1.

• Physical and Mental Ordeals: While the saints will not be put to death during the great time of trouble, they may suffer hunger and distressEv 240.4+1. Stern necessity will compel them to live on bread and water while they flee to desolate places and mountain strongholds Isaiah 33:16LDE 265.1+1.

• Divine Protection: Although the wicked rush upon them to slay them, mighty angels in the form of men of war will defend them, causing the weapons of the enemy to fall powerless as strawEW 283.1+2.

The Final Outcome and Deliverance 🌅

The "time of trouble" serves as the final test to manifest Christ’s power to the worldEv 240.4+1.

• The Partial Resurrection: Just before the second advent, those who pierced Christ and those who died in the faith of the third angel’s message are raised—the former to shame and the latter to witness the covenant of peace Daniel 12:2+1EVRR512.

• The 144,000: This group comes "out of great tribulation," having stood through the plagues and the time of Jacob's trouble; they alone can sing the "new song" of their unique experience Revelation 14:1-5ARSH April 25, 1865, page 163.4+2.

• Eternal Reward: Following this ordeal, God will wipe away all tears, and the redeemed will serve Him day and night in His temple, never to hunger or thirst again Revelation 7:14-17CET 232.2+1.