In Revelation 2:10, Jesus says to the church in Smyrna through John, “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.”
This is another example of how the Lord uses the attacks of the enemy to accomplish His purposes. The church in Smyrna was allowed to suffer, including imprisonment and death. God used it to test them. When they passed the test the Lord would reward them with a victor’s crown to wear through all eternity in His presence.
As Psalm 30:5b says, “weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” This is the encouragement and hope we have, no matter how bitter the trials and tribulations may become. God in His wisdom and mercy turns all of it to our good and His glory. What the enemy intends for evil, God uses for our good. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
