Revelation 4:6
and before the throne were burning seven torches of fire,which are the seven spirits of God,
~Where are the seven spirits of God? They are before his throne. Now you remember back in the first chapter in verse 4 we were introduced to the seven spirits of God. There they were indeed made out to be a part of God—a person of God. We were told that they were ‘before his throne’. Then we saw that not only were the seven spirits before the throne of God, but also the lampstands were before his throne. The lampstands are the churches (Rev. 1:12-13, 20). So, the lampstands and the spirits of God are in the same location and of the same number. In the Tabernacle the lampstands were filled with oil—the oil is a type of the Holy Spirit. The oil fueled the fire which was the light of the Tabernacle, and was certainly in the same location as the lampstands. As we moved into the third chapter of Revelation we saw as Jesus referred to himself as “him who has the seven spirits of God”. This is enforcing that the seven spirits of God are indeed a part of God. Now here, in chapter 4, we are told, “Before the throne were burning seven torches of fire, which are the seven spirits of God.” So, we are looking at that part of God which is like a fire.
In the book of Acts we see as the Holy Spirit is poured out upon the church for the first time the disciples began to speak in tongues and tongues of fire appeared above them. As Paul spoke to Timothy he exhorted him to ‘fan the flame’ that was within him; referring to his gifts of the Spirit. Hereto it would seem that the Book of Revelation is painting a picture for us of the Holy Spirit.
But why seven spirits? Well, traditionally the number seven is the sense of completeness. Remember Jesus told his disciples that it was better for him to leave and to send the Holy Spirit rather than to stay. Why would it be good for God in the flesh, the Creator of the Universe on earth, to leave earth? Well, that person of God which would be sent would be able to be with them no matter where their location. Jesus could only be in one place at a time. The seven spirits of God indicate that the Holy Spirit is that part of God who being in multiple locations is still complete.
Understanding this let it be known that God will be with you no matter your location (Psalm 139). Furthermore, ask yourself this question: How can I be filled with the Holy Spirit, overflowing day after day? Is this not a necessity of the Christian life? The Holy Spirit is our power for godly living, and for the bold proclamation of the Gospel. Where is the completeness of the Spirit of God? The completeness of the Spirit of God is before his throne. Therefore, I plead with you come boldly before the throne of grace that you might receive mercy and grace in the time of need (Heb. 4:16). Each morning as you arise come before his throne and let the fire of God burn within that you may be the light of the world. Allow men to see the good works produced from such a burning and give glory to the Father who is in heaven (Matt. 5:16).
