God is in control: a devotion on faith and hope

From an Africa Study Bible learn note on “Revelation and Apocalyptic Writing”:

Revelation in the New Testament and sections of Daniel in the Old Testament are the two primary biblical examples of a style of writing called apocalyptic literature. This style developed after the end of the Jewish exile in Babylon. The Jews were a defeated and discouraged people, so apocalyptic writing was designed to be an encouragement to them. Revelation was most likely written after Jerusalem was destroyed in AD 70, when many Jews were killed, sold into slavery, or forced to flee Israel. Twenty years later, some churches were flourishing around the Roman empire, but many Christians were being persecuted. Revelation was written to be an encouragement to all these believers. The apocalyptic writing in both Daniel and Revelation show us that God’s future judgement of Satan and the world is sure, and it is only a matter of time until His Kingdom is established (Matthew 24; Mark 13; Luke 21). 

Today, many African countries are economically disadvantaged with great political and social oppression. African Christians in some countries are being persecuted for their faith in Christ and are experiencing discrimination and violence. The longing for opportunity, deliverance, and justice are strong. The message of Revelation—with its assurance of the judgement of the wicked and the future blessing of the righteous—is for them.

As Christians, the message of hope contained in the apocalyptic writings is an invitation for us to persevere in our faith in the Lion of the tribe of Judah, Jesus Christ, who has won the ultimate victory (Revelation 5:5). It is an invitation for us to accept and pursue the justice and restoration that God offers to all oppressed people today and in the age to come. It is an invitation to proclaim Christ’s victory over evil.

Today:

Spend time worshipping God for who He is through prayer, song, or reading scripture verses. Thank His justice, and His victory over sin and Satan. Ask yourself, “Do I live like God is on the throne and His victory over evil is sure?” Ask God how He wants you to stand against evil at your work, in your speech, and with your actions.