S)"11 And there was given to each of them a white robe; and they were told that they should rest for a little while longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brethren who were to be killed even as they had been, would be completed also."
Revelation 6:11 (NASB)
O) These peope were martyrs, as described in vs. 9 and what really stood out to me are 3 things. Unfortunately, I don't have the time or relative space to get into all 3 aspects, but that's probably for the better, because I don't want to be side-tracked.
1- In heaven, it is possible for people to be aware of the events on earth.
2- In heaven, despite its eternal nature, the passage of time is still felt
3- (And this is the bigger one) - Martyrs are not killed by accident.
On that last note, it's a tough, tough concept to accept; however, we must know that God has a plan greater than our understanding and He is unwavering in His goodness. Part of His plan is that some of His followers will be martyred. More specifically, a finite number of believers must die for the name of Jesus Christ.
A) It is hard to ever say with absolute certainty, that I would die before I would denounce Jesus Christ. That can never be proven until I literally risk my life. Having said that, I can say with absolute conviction, that I am willing to die, before I would renounce my faith. There is no other way to apply this Scripture. It's all or nothing, pass or fail, life or death. I choose eternal life even unto my temporal death.
P) Father, first, if it is within Your will, I pray that You never ask me to be a martyr. If it comes to that, Lord, I will bear Your name before any other name. Holy Spirit, give me discernment if I ever face that day, to know when to be silent, when to speak; when to be still, when to act. Strengthen me to bear my cross every day, God, well before it ever endangers my life here. Help me to lay down my life each day, so that if it's ever asked from me, it will already be out of my hands. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
P) Father, first, if it is within Your will, I pray that You never ask me to be a martyr. If it comes to that, Lord, I will bear Your name before any other name. Holy Spirit, give me discernment if I ever face that day, to know when to be silent, when to speak; when to be still, when to act. Strengthen me to bear my cross every day, God, well before it ever endangers my life here. Help me to lay down my life each day, so that if it's ever asked from me, it will already be out of my hands. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
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