Temporarily Stunned

No, these goats aren't dead. And actually, they didn't even faint, although they've earned the nickname "Tennessee Fainting Goats." Why? They have a hereditary disorder called “myotonia congenital” that causes their muscles to lock up when they're startled (watch a video of them in action HERE or come to service this weekend to see it). They don't actually faint, but when they get scared, their muscles lock up and they easily toppled over. Within seconds, they're back on their feet and running around like nothing happened.

These goats actually kind of reminded me of God's enemies in Revelation 16. The time has come for their judgment and He begins to pour out His wrath in rapid, violent, sudden floods of judgment. The people being judged (who actually survive) seem to act similar to these goats. They are writhing in pain after breaking out in sores all over their body or being scorched by the sun, but then look how they respond:

Revelation 16:9 - ...and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give Him glory.

They're temporarily stunned, but then turn around and blaspheme God and continue in their sinful ways! Horrible! Don't make God teach you the hard way that He's the Judge and He's in control. It's a painful lesson that you don't have to learn hands-on.