What Are You About to Suffer?

Today's full reading: Revelation 2:1-17

"Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life." (Revelation 2:10 NIV)

The three messages given in today's reading are described as from He who holds the seven stars in His right hand and who walks among the lamp stands, He who is the First and the Last, and He who has a sharp double-edged sword. (see Rev. 2:1,8,12) The messages are directed specifically to three churches: Ephesus, Smyrna, and Pergamum. However, we can all gleam wisdom from what was written to them and how they each responded.

Only one message is wholly encouraging; the other two carry a strong rebuke along with encouragement and instruction. But, just how encouraging is the message to the church at Smyrna? Christ says, "Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer." Well, that is not exactly encouraging news unless you keep reading, "Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life." (Rev. 2:10)

Rest assured, suffering for righteousness sake is not without reason or purpose. Sometimes, perhaps often, only the Lord knows those reasons, but we can believe firmly that they exist based on Romans 8:28.Suffering impacts us and our loved ones in profound ways. May we learn to be truly thankful in ALL circumstances as we trust the Lord.

Today, as an act of worship, do not be afraid of what you may be called upon to suffer for the sake of the cause of Christ. Praise God in your circumstances and for your circumstances.