In his message to the believers in Smyrna, we do not hear what we might most want to hear. In the face of suffering, Jesus does not promise a lifting of that suffering. In fact, he indicates things are about to get worse. Instead Jesus calls his people to reject fear and remain faithful because through faith in him, they will find their ultimate victory and security. Here are words of powerful encouragement for the bride of Christ wherever and whenever she finds herself facing crushing pressure in this dark world.
