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Read: Habakkuk 1:1-3; 2:1-4

The prophecy that Habakkuk the prophet received. How long, LORD, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save? Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrongdoing? Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, and conflict abounds. Then the LORD replied: the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay. “See, the enemy is puffed up; his desires are not upright—but the righteous person will live by his faithfulness. Habakkuk 1:1-3; 2:1-4 (selected verses)

Worth the Wait

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Christmas is such a fun time of year! Christmas Day is especially exciting—opening presents, celebrating Jesus’ birth, and being together with family. For many kids, the day after Christmas starts the countdown: “Only 364 days until Christmas again!” A year feels like forever, but we wait because Christmas is just that awesome.

In our Bible reading today, the Lord says, “Wait for it . . . it will certainly come and not delay.” But he’s not talking about Christmas. He’s talking about something even better! God is telling us to wait for Jesus’ final coming—the day when Jesus comes back to take everyone who believes in him to heaven. That day will come. Jesus promises it “will not delay”—he won’t forget! But when will it happen? When do we get to be in heaven with Jesus forever, with no sin, no sadness, no sickness?

Living in our sinful world can be really hard sometimes. We get sick. We feel sad, mad, or lonely. We mess up and feel guilty. Friends can be unkind. Sometimes people even make fun of us because we believe in God.

But what we’re waiting for is totally worth it!

Heaven will be better than anything we’ve ever waited for—better than birthdays, vacations, or even Christmas morning. Because Jesus died and rose for us, we know for sure we’re going there. Every day—at school, at home, everywhere—we can remember God has something coming for us. And he keeps his promises. It will come. It will not delay.

So whenever life feels tough or unfair, believers can take a deep breath and remember: Heaven is real. Jesus is coming back. And it will be worth the wait.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, living in a sinful world can be hard for us. Whenever we feel sad or tired, remind us that what you have for us in heaven is worth the wait. Help us to live for you until you come. Do not delay! Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What is something you want to ask God for help with this week? (Feelings, school, friendships, habits—anything!)


• What do you think will be the BEST part of being in heaven with God one day? (No wrong answers—imagination welcome!)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What are some ways we can stay faithful and close to Jesus until the Last Day? (Examples: praying, reading the Bible, worship, kindness, saying sorry, trusting God.)


• We don’t know exactly when Jesus is coming back. Why isn’t that scary for us? (Hint: Because Jesus loves us, stays with us, and keeps his promises.)

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why do you think God doesn’t tell us the exact day he will come again? (To help us trust him, stay ready, and live every day for him.)


• The Bible says Jesus’ coming “will not delay,” but it has been almost 2,000 years! How can that still be true? (Because God’s timing is perfect. He doesn’t forget. And he always does what he says—right on time.)

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