As a thought starter, consider what is written in Revelation 6:9-11…
I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. 10 They cried out with a loud voice, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” 11 Then they were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete, who were to be killed as they themselves had been.
Think! Ruminate solemnly over what is written! In case you need a bump or two…
This took place in heaven!
People in heaven verbalized a great level of frustration… “HOW LONG…?!”
These people in heaven are those who had been killed (Neither of us have paid that price… yet) for their testimony about Jesus. Kind of puts whatever we go through into perspective doesn’t it?
These people in heaven were given an “interim reward” (A white robe) and told to wait.
God has determined there is a number of people who enter heaven through losing their life for Christ (“Until the number… should be complete”).
Have you ever asked God “How long?” “How long am I going to have to suffer through this (Whatever “this” is for you)?” If so, know that you aren’t the only one… the first OR last person to ask that question. God’s answer is… wait. Thus what we find in 1 Peter 5:6…
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you… 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
Take heart… whatever state you are in! If your frustration is a week… month… year or decade old, keep a heavenly perspective. Paul called all the sufferings HE went through (CLICK HERE) as “light” and “momentary.” Light (For Paul) meant death and momentary meant a lifetime. Keep a heavenly perspective!