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Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.

Revelation 2:10, ESV

Tribulation is a part of the Christian life. John was given a vision and a warning to various churches of the age, but the message is clear for all of us today. We will face those who will stand against the faith and falsely accuse faithful Christians. Some Christians will be imprisoned, but all faithful followers of Christ will face struggles. Our faith is contrary to the world and challenges the core beliefs of worldly society. The words of John are meant to give us courage and strength in these times, knowing that they will only be temporary. We can walk with confidence at all times, knowing that the victory has already been won. We have nothing to fear because the promise is fulfilled. This is the reality that allows martyrs to sing hymns of praise as they know that their lives will be taken. Our suffering is for but a moment, but Christ’s victory is eternal. As we walk through our suffering, let us walk in the knowledge that eternity awaits us and, in this, find our peace.

Let us pray. I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have kept me this night from all harm and danger, and I ask you to protect me this day also from sin and every evil, that in all I do today, I may please you. For into your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel watch over me, that the wicked foe have no power over me. Amen.