Hope in the Long Game

Scripture: Whoever has ears, let them hear.

“If anyone is to go into captivity,
    into captivity they will go.
If anyone is to be killed with the sword,
    with the sword they will be killed.”

This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of God’s people

Revelation 13:9-10

Observation: John sees 'the beast' and what the beast is given authority to do. This includes both terrible blasphemy of God, and total domination over God's people. The beast explicitly has authority over every people group in the world, and conquers "God's holy people". However, with that mind, here is the encouragement ... there is a destined outcome for those who do not obey the Lord, and that is death, while those who remain faithful have their names written in the Lamb's book of life. Regardless how dark times get, the outcome remains certain, but requires patience.

Application: As a believer, we are redeemed and saved. However, the challenges of this world will defeat us here on earth. This isn't just a given, but a revealed certainty. It may even be a sign of salvation ... that the evils controlled by 'the beast' will oppress faithful believers.

I have full faith in the final outcome, however. While I strive for my life on earth to be better - for myself but absolutely for my family and children - I understand there are limits to the comfort I can have, because the world is opposed to God, and thus opposed to me as a believer. I know my reward, then, is not here. I'm not home yet.

Prayer: Abba, my father, I love you, and fully believe in Jesus Christ my savior. I know your hand is on me and my family. May we remain faithful through all life's trials, knowing that they are both certain and temporary, but your love is even more certain is in permanent. Please give us this day our daily bread. Thank you for your love, and for seeing me. Amen.