Who are the 144,000?

Scripture - Revelation 7:4 And I heard the number of those who were sealed, one hundred and forty-four thousand sealed from every tribe of the sons of Israel

Observation - Who are the 144,000? The ten northern tribes were dispersed among the nations. Those of the southern kingdom are the ones that we call Jews today from the tribes of Judah (and Benjamin). They returned to the land and they know who they are. This passage goes even further to say that there will be 12,000 from each tribe. Is it not possible that some of us will be part of the 144,000?

Application - I don't really have an application for this one. Just pondering who the 144,000 are this evening. Prior to this passage, verse 3 says they will be sealed on their foreheads. In the times that we live in, it is a possibility that we will be on the earth during this time period. We must hold fast to our faith. Even if we are not in the 144,000, we could very likely be part of the great multitude from every nation, tribe, peoples, and tongues who cry out in verse 10 "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb."

Prayer - Father, please help us to walk ever so close to you in the days that we live in. There are many tribulations coming. Let us be part of your plan to usher in the second coming of Yeshua. Help my brothers and sisters to remain strong in you. Amen.