To the angel of the church in Smyrna write: “The First and the Last, who was dead and came to life, says these things: I know your works and tribulation and poverty (but you are rich). And I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tried, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.” Revelation 2:8-11

In contrast to the church in Ephesus, the church in Smyrna appears to have no works, but then it is not rebuked for any failures.

What is most likely is that the Ephesian Christians allowed their works to corrupt their hearts to the point that they relaxed in their first love.

Just like our beloved Lord acknowledged the groaning of the church in Smyrna, He also acknowledged the battles that His servants went through each day.

Their tribulation and poverty, and the hurtful accusations of false Jews served to keep the faith of those Christians active.

I believe that He is now allowing His people to go through tribulations of all sorts for the same reason. In the end, all things work togetherfor the good of those who are His, isn’t that right?

His rejection of those Jews was such that He considered their holy place a synagogue of satan. And wouldn’t that be His attitude toward many supposed Christian “churches” today?

But for those who are born of the Spirit there is nothing to fear. Prison, tribulation and every other trial that may come in the deserts of life are part of our journey to the Promised Land.

Stand firm and be faithful because sooner or later it will pass.

What is our reward?

The crown of life.