Ever since Adam and Eve rebelled against God by eating the forbidden fruit, life got tough. The pain of life is still with us today and will be until we either meet death, or meet our Maker at His return.
Don't tell me that life isn't tough when I walk the hospital halls and visit people who are dying of cancer. Don't tell me that life isn't tough when I counsel with couples who are ready to "hang up their marriage." Don't tell me that life isn't tough when I talk with people who are struggling financially because they have lost their jobs. Don't tell me that life isn't tough when I talk with a father whose son has just committed suicide.
Life is tough and the church in Smyrna felt it everyday as they were persecuted for their faith and faced much tribulation. However, Jesus gives us the words of encouragement that we all need as we face the difficulties of life. When you feel like giving up and quitting remember these words and this great promise from Jesus as found in Revelation 2:10.
"Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life."
So, when the going gets tough, the tough remain faithful.
