These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life.
Revelation 2:8
Jesus is He Who Was Dead and Is Alive; He will be with you in persecution because He understands suffering. He took the bitter drink of death for you. If you suffer, remember that He is suffering with you. Now you don’t have to be afraid of death, because He was dead but now is alive. If God’s enemies kill you, He will raise you up, just as He came back from the dead.
Lord, why do godly people have to suffer? I want everyone to like me. Why do I have tribulation and difficulties?
Because God’s enemies persecuted Jesus, they will also attack you. Since they killed Him, they may even attempt to kill you. The world loves darkness rather than light, because its deeds are evil (John 3:19). But “He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death” (Revelation 2:11). Jesus will be with you in persecution and trials, because He was persecuted and killed. He was dead and came back to life. Jesus says, “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty” (Revelation 2:9). Do not fear any of those things that you are about to suffer. He promises, “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10). Because He Who Was Dead and Is Alive has overcome death, He will crown you with eternal life.
Lord, be first in my life, and help me live for You until the end of my life. Because You have overcome death and are alive, I want You to live through me today. Amen.
Go Deeper: Revelation 2:8-11
Because Jesus suffered, He knows your sufferings.