Revelation 2:10(KJV)
Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
The above Scripture assures us that God has the gift of spiritual crown for genuine believers who are faithful to the end. The believer in this world has a battle to fight, and only in the way of battle can he gain the victory and obtain the crown. Truly, persecution can at times burden the patience of the believer, however he/she is urged to rejoice because of the future glory that awaits him/her. Should we, because of the fear of controversies, imprisonment or even death, fail to preach the word as we ought to? God forbid. Matthew 10:22 says “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” We are exhorted to run with patience the race that is set before them, laying aside every obstacle and sin, looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.
The paths of a Christian may not always appear easy. They are paved with trials and tribulations that build strength and character. When the road is hard, God is there to carry you. As a believer, you will be tested for your faith by the devil. But this is your consolation, inside your confrontation is your promotion and that trial is a set-up for your triumph. Our world today is full of the lust of the flesh would confuse and lead most astray from the path of the truth by its false philosophy but when we value faithfulness above life this world gives, we will challenge the horrible lie. As believers, we will be able to stand to the end through the preserving grace. The same marvelous grace that was revealed on the Cross of God’s only begotten Son, Jesus Christ and that was bestowed upon us by the Holy Spirit, is the Power that will keep, strengthen, sanctify, enlighten and cause us to discern spiritual things, if we are to stand and gain the victory in this battle of faith.
Beloved, dream great dreams, embrace great principles, renew your hope, but above all, believe in the Christ, who alone can give total meaning and an ultimate goal to your life. Believers must put on the whole armor of God, that they may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Keep your eye on the destination that God has called you to, there you will receive the crown of life. Be not afraid, just be faithful to the end. Revelation 21:7 says “Everyone who conquers will inherit all these blessings, and I will be his God and he will be my son.” Always see something positive out of every confrontation because inside your mess your message can come.
O LORD, help me to always be faithful to my belief in You, where there is despair, use me to bring Your Hope in Jesus’ Name.