God is Faithful
Revelation 2:9
I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.
Jesus doesn’t speak to Smyrna from a distance. He says, “I know your afflictions.” He sees their wounds, their poverty, their slander. That word “know” is intimate—He doesn’t just observe their pain, He enters into it with them. Smyrna had nothing of earthly wealth, but Jesus says they are rich in what truly matters: His presence and His promises.
That reminder is powerful because affliction often makes us feel unseen or abandoned. Poverty whispers, “You’re lacking.” Slander shouts, “You’re alone.” But Jesus says, “I know.” Every tear, every loss, every wound is noticed by Him. And in His eyes, those who cling to Him are rich, no matter what the balance sheet or public opinion says.
Our culture measures wealth by possessions and influence, but the riches of Christ can’t be canceled, taken, or taxed. Faith in Jesus makes the poorest saint richer than the wealthiest ruler. That truth gave Smyrna courage to endure. It can give us courage, too, when our faith costs us friends, opportunities, or reputation.
God’s faithfulness is not proven by the absence of suffering but by His presence in the middle of it. If He knew Smyrna’s pain, He knows yours too. Hold fast to Him—you are richer than you think.
Prayer
Lord, thank You that You see me in every affliction. Remind me today that my worth is not measured by what I have, but by who I have in You. Make me rich in faith, steadfast in hope, and secure in Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.
Jesus doesn’t speak to Smyrna from a distance. He says, “I know your afflictions.” He sees their wounds, their poverty, their slander. That word “know” is intimate—He doesn’t just observe their pain, He enters into it with them. Smyrna had nothing of earthly wealth, but Jesus says they are rich in what truly matters: His presence and His promises.
That reminder is powerful because affliction often makes us feel unseen or abandoned. Poverty whispers, “You’re lacking.” Slander shouts, “You’re alone.” But Jesus says, “I know.” Every tear, every loss, every wound is noticed by Him. And in His eyes, those who cling to Him are rich, no matter what the balance sheet or public opinion says.
Our culture measures wealth by possessions and influence, but the riches of Christ can’t be canceled, taken, or taxed. Faith in Jesus makes the poorest saint richer than the wealthiest ruler. That truth gave Smyrna courage to endure. It can give us courage, too, when our faith costs us friends, opportunities, or reputation.
God’s faithfulness is not proven by the absence of suffering but by His presence in the middle of it. If He knew Smyrna’s pain, He knows yours too. Hold fast to Him—you are richer than you think.
Prayer
Lord, thank You that You see me in every affliction. Remind me today that my worth is not measured by what I have, but by who I have in You. Make me rich in faith, steadfast in hope, and secure in Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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