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
A man was warned not to go to Jerusalem because he would be delivered to the authorities. His friends tried to persuade him to desist. He answered, “I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 21:13).
Many believers rightly ask the Lord to "deliver us from evil" (Matthew 6:13). Still, few realities are emphasized in the Scriptures more than the suffering of the believer. Far from being delivered from present difficulties, many more are added to us for Christ’s sake.
In this text the Lord does not conceal the suffering that is coming to the church in Smyrna but instead gives details of what will ensue. The forces of Satan will attack this congregation. Was it not enough that they were in poverty and being slandered? Why would Jesus’ message foretell worse upon them? The author of Hebrews tells his audience: “you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood” (Hebrews 12:4). Jesus tells the church in Smyrna that she will have this privilege. Wouldn’t these words make them falter? The answer is a resounding no because this was not the only thing He told them. The key is what adorns these words: “Do not fear… I will give you the crown of life.”
Have you memorized this verse? “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). The context here refers to the worries in this life, but the provision of Jesus for them is the same. There’s no other remedy. But there is an encouraging detail in this passage from Luke. Unlike the crown of Smyrna that is conditional, Luke shows us that this crown is already ours.
Fear causes man to avoid what he considers risky or dangerous. Fear can be a powerful impediment to a joyful and strong walk in the Lord’s will, because the road is full of obstacles that might slow us down. Jesus says "fear not;" stay faithful, because nothing can or will take away what He bought for you on the cross. The worst thing in this life can be defined as “suffering unto death,” but not even that can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39).
This is not a message only to Smyrna. It is for you, dear child of God, as you endure severe afflictions. Jesus lovingly says to you, “Do not fear.”
For Reflection
What do you value more, a life free from suffering, or a glorious, eternal future with Jesus?
How does Jesus’ promise of the crown of life provide hope and encouragement in the midst of your trials?
Ask the Lord to make you faithful unto death and to make your longing for heaven greater than your fear of present afflictions.