Satan is cast into the abyss for 1000 years (compare Rev. 20:3 and 7). It is from this period of time that the phrase “millennial kingdom” mistakenly arose. It is improper to speak of Christ’s kingdom lasting only for a thousand years, for His rule extends into the ages(Dan 7:14; Lk. 1:33; Heb. 1:8; Rev. 11:15), after which time He delivers the kingdom to the Father, “so that God may be all in all” (1 Cor. 15:24-28). After the 1000 years, Satan is released “for a short time” (concurrent with Christ’s continuing reign) during which he deceives the nations again (Rev. 20:7), commencing the Great Tribulation (Bowls of Wrath; Rev. 16:1–18:24). Subsequently, Christ casts Satan into the Lake of Fire where he and the “beast” and “false prophet” are tormented “into the ages” (Rev. 19:20; 20:10). W Ramey. (c) June 3, 2009
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die
Corrected version: (in line with the truth of scripture)
You can stand at my grave if you wish to weep,
I am not there, I am completely asleep,
I am not a thousand winds that blow,
I am not the diamond glints on snow,
For if I was I would not know,
I am not the sun on ripened grain,
I am not the gentle autumn rain
I am not the swift uplifting flight,
Of quiet birds encircling tight,
I am not the soft star shining bright,
For I cannot be seen day or night,
I am a thousand particles of dust,
In a coffin of rotting wood and rust,
I am asleep in slumber deep,
Awaiting the Lord my reward to reap,
I am in a senseless state,
Awaiting the trumpet to herald my fate,
No praise can silenced lips unfold,
Until the day His gaze I hold,
So when awakened in the morning’s hush,
To my graveside do not rush
Do not stand at my tomb and cry,
I am not there, I surely did die.