Confronting Fear in PersecutionSample

# PROMISES IN TIMES OF FEAR Jesus warned that suffering will be inevitable, but he also warned us never to fear it. He predicts that the devil will instigate persecution and that His church will endure it. Jesus walks among the seven golden Lamp stands and addresses the Church in Smyrna. He is encouraging the Church not to fear the coming persecution and afflictions the devil will put them through. We are His people; no one can snatch us out of His hand. So, He assures us not to be worried about what they may test us with or what will happen to us in prison or elsewhere. Despite the suffering, Jesus comforted us by saying He would always be with us through it. For those who are faithful, the prize is the crown of life, which is glorious and eternal. Beloved, let us be comforted that our suffering is not in vain, and it will reap an eternal heavenly reward. Commit and Pray Do you worry about what will happen to you, your family, or other believers? In your fears, can you meditate on the Lord's eternal rewards? Pray that we will be reminded of the eternal rewards in our fears and persecution.