“And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life.
“‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 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. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’

Revelation 2:8-11

Every week we hear of Christians in different parts of the world who are suffering for their faith in Christ. Over the past few years, we’ve seen churches closed, and pastors jailed, and in countries overseas, we’ve read of massacres of Christians during Easter celebrations.

Suffering for the faith is real. In the letter to the church at Smyrna in the verse above, we read how Jesus commends this church for its perseverance and then warns that things may get worse before they get better.

Likewise, the writer of Hebrews reminds us in the great faith chapter that –

Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated— of whom the world was not worthy—wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

Hebrews 11:33-38

Fear is a common response to suffering. I can’t imagine anyone seeking out painful situations in life, but when we face a trial we can confidently see it to the end.

How do we conquer FEAR related to suffering?

Remember God’s past faithfulness. (Hebrews 12:3-4)

Embrace the present pain as an honor for God’s glory. (Acts 5:41)

Look to the future promises of God. (1 Peter 1: 6-9)

Finally, like the church in Smyrna, we are challenged to “be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life (Revelation 2:10a).”