Revelation 14.    Here we see the 144,000 again.  They are called the firstfruits because they were the first to hear the whole gospel, and be redeemed.  Many of those first Jewish believers paid for their allegiance to Christ by giving their lives.  John witnessed that.  All of his early companions in the ministry were now dead.  The question that looms in the air here is “Was it worth it?”  The answer:

‘“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!”’
(Revelation 14:13 ESV)

The wrath of man (even if it leads to death) is nothing compared to the horrible wrath of God that is coming upon this world.  God our creator loves us, and because of this love he cannot allow sin and Satan to continue to reign.  There will be a day of reckoning for Satan and sinners – a day of vindication for the martyrs.

LORD, may we love the people of this planet enough to warn them of your coming wrath.