Philadelphia was located in the Lydian valley where earthquakes were abundant. It wasn’t unusual for people in Philadelphia to cower in fear and to bolt from the city into open spaces when they felt shaking. Despite their trials and circumstances, God promises them a future of peace and security that would come from being in his presence. Jesus illustrates this by comparing them to “a pillar in the temple of my God.” The Greek word for “pillar” (stylos) refers to an extremely strong supporting beam.