TOPIC: BE FAITHFUL TO THE END

OPENING PRAYER: Open my eyes O Lord that I might behold wondrous things from your word in Jesus name.

SCRIPTURE: Revelation 2:8‐11

 MESSAGE

The city of Smyrna, just 25 miles from Ephesus, was noted for vibrant trade business. The church, however, struggled against “afflictions and poverty,” as well as occultism, including “wolves in sheep clothes” referred to as “a synagogue of Satan” (v.9). The Lord does not rebuke them for any wrongdoing; instead, He encourages them on account of the persecution awaiting them.

Jesus notes that although the church in Smyrna is poor, they should consider themselves rich. What riches? Certainly, not earthly wealth! The rich inheritance God has “kept in heaven for us will neither perish, spoil, nor fade” (1 Peter 1:4). We learn in v.10 of the danger ahead of Smyrna and the encouragement the Lord gives them (v.10).

The Lord’s admonition to us in time of distress is to be faithful to the end to receive the crown of life. As Jesus declares, “The one who is victorious (who will not give up but will hold on faithfully to the end) will not be hurt at all by the second death” (v.11)?the place of torment without God, prepared for Satan and his angels (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:14).

Through the centuries, including contemporary experience, Christians have suffered violence, imprisonment, even death. But the Lord encourages the Smyrna church and all believers: “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer.”

Question(s) for Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
• What truth is God revealing to me in this passage?

Scripture Union Daily Guide 4 August 2022 Closing Prayer
• Lord, in time of persecution and suffering, please help me to be true and faithful in my walk with you.

Offer a prayer of faith in line with Isaiah 43:2

One Year Bible Reading Plan
Isaiah 31‐33.

NATIONAL PRAYER BULLETIN

Thu, 04-Aug-2022

PRAYER FOCUS

ENDURE FOR CHRIST SAKE
If we endure, we will also reign with Him; If we deny Him, He will also deny us;
2 Timothy 2:12

THANK GOD FOR:
☀ Being our comfort in all situations as we dwell more in His presence and tell Him all about our struggles.
☀ Example of believers who endured till the end.

PRAY FOR:
☛ Our brethren who are undergoing persecution in their land, office, family, business and even in their marriages that God will help them endure for Christ sake.
☛ God to open your eyes to see the glory that await you and all that suffer with Him so you will not faint.
☛ Your hope to be firmly grounded as you pray, sing and rejoice in God’ s presence despite all odds.

PRAY AGAINST:
⚠ Compromising God’s standard so that you will be accepted by men.
⚠ Failing to rejoice knowing that men can only kill this body and that God has His blessings awaiting you in heaven.

Scripture Union Daily Guide 4 August 2022. Scripture Union is an international, interdenominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God. Scripture Union Daily Guide 4 August 2022