Devotional: From Persecution To Paradise (Brandon Gilford)
In the book of Revelation 2:8-11, Jesus gives John a message for the church Smyrna. He tells John that he knows their works, He knows that they are serving Him with works that are pleasing to God. He goes on to say that He also knows their tribulation and poverty, and that times are hard for them. Jesus knew that the church was going through tribulation because there were people among them that said they were His people, but really they were a synagogue of Satan. They said they served God but their works are completely against Him, and now they are serving Satan by persecuting God’s people.
Does this sound like you? Are you troubled in your life sometimes because you are serving God, but yet you still continue to run into trouble in your path? Why I am being persecuted for living right, is the question we all will ask at one point of our walk towards Jesus. Persecution comes from the enemy because he hates all who follow Jesus and he wants to destroy their lives. He is also the accuser that wants to find fault in your life, and make you look unworthy to serve God. God warns us in His word about the roaring lion named Satan who will try to throw us in prison, to be tested. (Revelation 2:10) Jesus wanted John to take this message back to the church of Smyrna to let them know that they are not alone, their suffering is not in vain. The Bible tells us in (Romans12:12) that we shall rejoice in our tribulation for Him in prayer. In John 16:33, it tells us that we should be of good cheer during tribulation because Jesus has overcome. God promises us during these times that He will never leave us nor forsake us, that if we would not fear but have Faith in the promises of God that we will have the victory over every life tribulation. (Deuteronomy 31:6-8) Those in Christ Jesus can rest assured that every tribulation will be seen through by God. He promises us that He will work everything out for the good of those who love Him and serve Him wholeheartedly. (Romans 8:28) He will use what the enemy intended to destroy us, to help us to grow, bear more fruits, and ultimately to become more like Jesus. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 tells us that We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed: we are persecuted, but not forsaken: struck down, but not destroyed. Jesus tells us to be faithful until the end, because those who are found faithful after tribulation will receive the crown of life in the paradise of heaven. He who overcomes persecution faithfully will not be hurt by the second death of fire for the wicked.
