S. Revelation 6:9-11 (NIV) 9 When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. 10 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?” 11 Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers and sisters, were killed just as they had been.
O. John writes of the future, perhaps this is what some writers and theologians refer to as the Great Tribulation (a future time when believers will lose their life because of their faith in Jesus). Regardless of where this event is on God’s timeline, believers are assured of at least two things: living for Jesus brings persecution (all those who live godly lives in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution 2 Timothy 3:12) and that there is a future reward for faithfully staying the course in serving Jesus (yet there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness 2 Timothy 4).
A. I have not faced persecution that was of the nature of being life threatening – yet I know the enemy, the Devil tries repeatedly to attack by planting negative thoughts in my mind and by seeking to wreck anything I do for Jesus (The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy … John 10:10). I have also experienced antagonism from unbelievers and yes, even had “Christian soldiers” shoot at me. Nevertheless, I will live out 1 Corinthians 15:58 knowing there is a great, future blessing coming. (58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Cor.15:58 NIV)
P. Thank you Lord for your faithfulness. Your mercies are truly new every morning. Thank you for the promise of future blessing and the encouragement to remain faithful. In Jesus’ name.
