Thank you for joining us as we have worked our way through the book of Revelation. As Pastor David continues to help us unpack the rest of the book, we are going to turn our attention in our daily devotions to the different themes found in John’s writing. For the next four weeks, we’ll dive into themes in the book of Revelation and explore how they align with the rest of Scripture.
This week we will explore the ideas of perseverance and being a faithful witness. What does it look like to stand firm in what we believe, resisting corruption and remaining loyal to God in the midst of difficult things?
Day 7: Faithful Unto Death
Read Revelation 2:8–11
8 “To the angel of the church in Smyrna write:
These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. 9 I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 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 life as your victor’s crown.
11 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.
God,
Thank You for the reminder this week that I can be faithful because of the power of Your faithfulness and Your Holy Spirit living in me. When the world around me seems out of control, help me to know that this world is not the end. That although it is broken, You still reign and You still hold the victory. May I find joy in the waiting and the testing of my faith, living fully in Your power to overcome whatever difficulties I face in this life. Give me Your boldness so that I might proclaim – with great love – what You have done. May the glory be all to You! Amen.
Reflection: God promises a crown of life to those who endure. What eternal reward motivates you to keep pressing forward?
