Life in Death
Today is a travel day for me. I am headed to Atlanta for another visit with Stephanie and family. My flight was scheduled to leave Denver at 4:40 p.m. and as of now is delayed.
Before leaving for the airport, I did make it to my Chiropractor appointment and got the lawn mowed. This is my first trip with crutches only, but I believe it will go well.
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Don’t be afraid of anything you are about to suffer. Listen! The Devil will put you to the test by having some of you thrown into prison, and your troubles will last ten days. Be faithful to me, even if it means death, and I will give you life as your prize of victory.” Revelation 2:10
This call to the Church at Smyrna is dramatic and challenging. It reminds me of Hebrews 2:15 “[That Jesus] might render powerless him who had the power of death….and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives.”
The most dangerous person is the one who doesn’t fear death. The saints in Smyrna had suffered trials and persecution. The resurrected Christ lets them know He is aware of their circumstances and tells them to have courage for what lies ahead. They will face prison and some may die, but the promise is that in death they will find life.
Those who remain faithful even in the most trying of circumstances are the ones who are the true victors. Christ brings victory over death and in death as we stand strong in faith.
As we face the trials of life, whether through the challenges that come in our sojourn through life, or because of our faith, if death is the “worst that could happen” even that does not need to discourage or intimidate us.
Most of us will not face “Smyrna” kind of sufferings. But we will face times of struggle and difficulty. These come and test our courage, faith and resolve.
What we need to remember is, The Lord knows, He is with us and will give the strength needed for each trial we face.