My Walk With Him: 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.

Sunday, March 13, 2022

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.

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. Revelation 2:9-10

I continue with my D-Group's study of Revelation using Stephen Witmer's commentary and study guide. With a focus again on Revelation 1:9-3:22, at the prompting of my study I examine how Christ is addressing the church in Smyrna in Revelation 2:9-10; and the commentary looks at how Jesus wanted to avoid how the Jews focused on external manifestations of faith but instead on the internal - our heart condition. The world satisfies itself with "stuff" or earthly status. Jesus instead wants us to focus on eternal rewards and how we should "hunger and thirst for righteousness" (Matthew 5:6), seeking to fill and satisfy ourselves with the "living water" (John 4:13-15).

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My Prayer: Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me and who has graced me with faith and never left or forsaken me - thank You Jesus! Thank You also for the sanctifying process - I am grateful. I am not deserving for these blessings and so much more that I cannot describe with words. I am not deserving of these blessings. My sin continues - worry, anger, etc. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. help me grow in faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to and apply Your message for me today and every day.