On the Book of Revelation

After thoroughly reading the book of Revelation, I found it dark and enlightening. It was enlightening in terms of bringing me closer to understanding what it means to be Christian. I also understand the evolution of Christianity and the different themes certain secs embrace. In my personal research, I have inquired by simply asking other Christians their take on Revelation. The response varied from embracing the literature, to, simply not acknowledging it. I am far from digesting the encrypted meanings of the story; however, I would dare to interpret the book of Revelation as a testimony to human suffering. For example, (Revelation 8:13)

"As I watched, I heard an eagle that was flying in midair call out in a loud voice: "Woe! Woe! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth, because of the trumpet blasts about to be sounded by the other three angels!"

(Exploring the New Testament Volume II pp, 306) The term Apocalyptic comes from the Greek word Apocalypse. It's important to note the origins of this type of writing lie in the Old Testament prophets. Also, in (Exploring the New Testament Volume II pp, 309) the author asked the reader to look through any text that suggests pressure or persecution, and asked how the text speaks to others that are content with the status qua of their society. One could conclude that Revelation could be baffling to a happy person that is told the end is very near; and he would be reasonable for him to ask if his happiness is at the expense of his salvation. Here is an excerpt from Revelation that describes citizens of the world not changing their ways despite the tragedies around them. (Revelation 9:20) "The rest of mankind that were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshiping demons, and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone and wood-idols that cannot see or hear or walk."

Reading the book of Revelation has been humbling. From my text book reading-supplementing biblical study- and my personal interpretations, I would summarize Revelation as proof-for me-to utilize and harness the energy and inevitability of human suffering for Christ; as oppose to suffering from the result of self inflicted sin. Here's an example to illustrate this from (Revelation 6:10-11)

They called out in a loud voice, "How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?" Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and brothers who were to be killed as they had been was completed.

Lastly, here is another example, from (Revelation 6:7-8)

When the Lamb opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature say, "Come!" I looked, and there before me was a pale horse! Its rider was named Death, and Hades was following close behind him. They were given power over a fourth of the earth to kill by sword, famine and plague, and by the wild beasts of the earth.