Sunday, April 2, 2023

Theme Verse: John 18:36 (NLT) Jesus answered, "My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world."

Key Verse: Revelation 2:8-10 (ESV) "And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The words of the first and the last, who died and came to 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. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.'"

Bottom Line: There is glory on the other side of your story.

3 Things to do to prepare for suffering:

1. Draw closer to Jesus

2. Study and memorize scripture

3. Be faithful in the face of small persecution

Additional passages: 1 Corinthians 15:19-20; Romans 8:35; 1 John 3:13; Philippians 4:6-7; James 1:12; Revelation 4:10