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Smyrna

    Like I said yesterday, we can learn a lot from looking at what Jesus had to say to the seven churches in Revelation. I want to explore what He has said to all of them. Today, we look at the church in Smyrna.

Revelation 2:9-11“I know about your suffering and your poverty—but you are rich! I know the blasphemy of those opposing you. They say they are Jews, but they are not, because their synagogue belongs to Satan. Don’t be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you. You will suffer for ten days. But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life. “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. Whoever is victorious will not be harmed by the second death." (NLT)

    Jesus starts by telling them that He knows where they are at. He sees their suffering and He has not forsaken them. Oftentimes we feel the same way. We go through rough seasons and yell at God as if He cannot hear our prayers or see where we are at. Be at peace knowing He does. But just because He sees us, doesn't mean that it is time to be relieved of the situation. Our faith is tested in difficult seasons to see if it is true.

Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (NIV)

James 1:12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. (ESV)

    Do not let a difficult season shake your faith. Remain steadfast until the end. Jesus told the church of Smyrna to remain faithful even unto death. If you do, you will receive the crown of life from Jesus Christ. What's more important to you-- denying Him to save face with others, or sticking to what is true unto eternity? Stand your ground and refuse to let Satan distract you with circumstance. 

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