June 21 | Revelation 2:10
“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.” (Revelation 2:10)
It’s hard for us to endure suffering and stick it out to the end. Often we give up right before the victory. C. S. Lewis wrote, “It’s always darkest before the dawn.” In the middle of trials and suffering we don’t know when the dawn will break.
When Jesus spoke to the second church in Revelation He didn’t have anything bad to say about them. But He warned them they would suffer tribulation for ten days in prison. These Christians were suffering under poverty, but were rich in Jesus. They were living in faith with extraordinary perseverance. His grace was sufficient for them.
You live in an unprecedented time in history. Persecution and suffering will come your way, and you must remain faithful. Jesus has already warned you of what is coming.
Even physical death in this world is nothing compared to Jesus’s glory and the privilege of suffering for Him. He gives us the crown of life, the eternal life we have in Him despite our circumstances. When we suffer for Him the second death will not hurt you.
Action Step: Stand firm in the face of suffering. Don’t give in before the dawn comes. Jesus gives you strength to face your trials with His grace.
Lord Jesus, I am suffering for You. But I stand firm in Your peace and power. Continue to fill me with Your Spirit and presence so I can stay strong until the end. Even so, Lord, come now.
