Scripture to Read: Revelation 2:9-10
Knowing our true riches are only found in Christ is critical to living for Christ each day. We know all believers will suffer persecution at the hands of perverse and evil people, even if it has not happened yet. For our brothers and sisters in Christ who are facing persecution, we need to pray and ask God to deliver them. That is why God led Paul to ask the believers in Thessalonica to pray in 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2, Finally, brethren, pray for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be glorified, just as it did also with you; 2 and that we will be rescued from perverse and evil men; for not all have faith. As we continue in Revelation 2:10, we see that Christ tells the believers in Smyrna, and us, not only to expect persecution but that this persecution will only worsen, Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Notice in verse 10 that our Lord says, “the devil is about to cast some of you into prison.” What a great reminder of who our battle is against each day. We see this in Ephesians 6:12, For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Knowing who our battle is against helps us to be prepared.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about who our battle is with each day and how to pray for those who are living in persecution?
2. Knowing your battle is with the devil and the spiritual forces of darkness, how are you preparing for battle each day?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!