revelation 2:8 “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life. “‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’
Habakkuk 2:3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.
Matthew 10:22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.
Matthew 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
Luke 12:4-7 And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.
The Church of Smyrna was located within a city that worshipped the emperor and second, pagan gods. They were mocked for believing. They were living in poverty for believing. They suffered for believing. In this prophetic letter, written to them, they were told some of them would suffer prison and other testings/tribulations. Some of these testings/tribulations would lead to or end up in the death of the believer. “Do not fear what you are about to suffer” are the words of Jesus Christ to them.
Do we suffer at all for our beliefs? Are we persecuted for our belief? I really don’t think we are. In fact, we may just be on the other side of this altogether, where we are blessed beyond all measure. Where suffering and persecution are put aside and God’s protection against these types of trials keeps them away. What kind of a believer would we be if this life of blessings was removed and suffering, trials, persecution, and tribulations were allowed into our life? Would we stand firm? Would we cling to, rely on, and trust in Jesus Christ. The Church of Smyrna was not warned about anything related to their conduct and lives as believers, their walk was firm. Their belief was firm. Their trust in Jesus Christ was firm. Their hope was firm. They were encouraged to stand firm and not be fearful of what was coming. It is one thing to stand firm when you live in times of blessings and altogether different when living in a time of persecution, trials, suffering, poverty, and tribulation. We would do well to learn to cast all worldly trusts aside and walk in humble service to Jesus Christ, with our eyes focused on Him not what the world has to offer.
