Aug. 6th Devotional - How Long, O Lord?

- Revelation 6:9-10

INTRODUCTION

For many ages now, the people of God have been asking, “how long?” How long until sin is vanquished? How long until all mankind has a love for the Lord? How long until our King and Lord is the King of kings and the Lord of lords? How long until the saints of God are no longer persecuted for their faith? How long until the blood of the martyrs will be avenged by God? These questions suggest a longing, a longing for the Lord to set things straight. Although believers may not know the timing, we do know that the future will come in God’s time. This promise and hope comforts the saints in times of trouble and gives them courage in the face of danger. It is this hope that reminds us that all will be recompensed in the end.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

• (For children): In Psalm 94:1-7 , the psalmist wanted the Lord to make things right. According to 2 Thessalonians 1:6-9 , we know that He will. Romans 8:22-23 says not only God’s people but all of creation desires the Lord’s return.
• (For everyone): Look up the phrase “how long” in your Bible. Name the people who asked this question. What do they have in common? What are some of the reasons people asked “how long”?
• Are you facing persecution for your faith in Christ? How do you find comfort in knowing that the Lord is going to make all things right at some point in the future?

PRAYER NEEDS

• Thank God for the promise of avenging the blood of His martyrs.
• Ask the Lord to remind you that one day all will be well.

HYMN

TIS SO SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS