Tuesday, October 28th: Smyrna was a wealthy and powerful Roman port city, but following Jesus there came with high cost. In Revelation 2:8–11, Jesus speaks not a word of rebuke to the believers, only encouragement and hope. He reminds them that He is the First and the Last — the One who died and came back to life — a powerful truth for believers facing persecution and even death. The church in Smyrna was materially poor but spiritually rich, demonstrating faith that the world could not measure. Jesus calls them to resist fear, stand firm through testing, and hold on to the promise of eternal life. The “crown of life” He offers is far greater than any earthly reward. This message still applies today: faithfulness matters more than comfort. Our hope isn’t rooted in success or safety but in the One who conquered death. When trials come, we can endure with courage, knowing our victory is secure in Jesus.
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