Revelation 6:9 – “When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held.”
Today’s devotional depicts a time in the apocalyptic future when there will be heavenly recognition for those who have given their lives for what they believed in. It is hard for us in this culture to imagine such a day.
However, there are brothers and sisters the world over who live with this present danger and some who have paid the ultimate price and given their lives for the kingdom. The verses following this one tell us that the blood of these martyrs will be avenged but there will be others that will die before vengeance occurs.
This brings to the surface several thoughts worth mentioning. Do we think that the present climate of religious tolerance in this country (USA for our dear Facebook friends beyond these borders) is one that will continue indefinitely? Is there a possibility that we might see some religious freedoms and expressions censored and limited at some point in the future? I would be interested to hear your thoughts on this. I would also love to hear from our brothers and sisters in other countries who could give their thoughts on persecution in their part of the world.
Here’s another thought: can our present depth (or lack) of Christian devotion and commitment endure under the heat of opposition, persecution, and trial? It is one thing to live for God when things are going well and personal threat is absent. It’s another thing to lay it all on the line and have your welfare at stake and the loss of possession or even life.Some times I get aggravated at the lack of spiritual maturity amongst professed believers and I wonder…
There’s a phrase in our devotion that grabs my attention: “…for the testimony which they held.” No matter what comes or goes we need to make sure we’re holding on to something strong and something that will carry us through tough times. That would be our testimony. I’m sure you’ve heard the cliché: “No testimony without a test.” When the heat gets turned up don’t turn in your testimony. Hold on to it. There is great reward, even if it costs you something else. Just remember, one day it will be worth it all!