September 11

Into you it is given . . . to suffer for his sake.

PHIL. i. 29.

These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty (but thou art rich). . . . Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: . . . be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. -- REV. ii. 8, 9, 10.

NOT one of the "seven churches in Asia" received so high a commendation from "the faithful and true witness" as that in Smyrna; yet in outward condition hers was the severest lot. Hers to suffer rather than to serve; to endure rather than to conquer; to have "tribulations" rather than triumphs. Again and again was she swept over by the fires of persecution, yet they did not consume her.

How full of strength and cheer these words to such a church! The assurance of a reigning Lord, having all power over death and hell, "the first and the last," "that was dead and is alive again." "No weapon that is formed against her shall prosper." After trial she shall come forth victorious. Her light shines to-day! Are you called, dear child of God, to trial, to disappointment, to sorrow, to see others reaping while you are laid aside? Remember, "they also serve who only stand and wait," that the highest praise fell to Smyrna, and through tribulations patiently endured.

Wm. M. Scott

Never flinched they from the flame,

From the torture never;

Vain the foeman's sharpest aim,

Satan's best endeavor.

For by faith they saw the land

Decked in all its glory,

Where triumphant now they stand,

With the victor's story.

J. NEALE (Translation).