8“And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The words of the first and the last, who died and came back to life. 9 “’ I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 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. 11 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.’
Revelation 2:8-11 (ESV)
18“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
John 15:18-19 (ESV)
12Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.sup>13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.
1 Peter 4:12-13 (ESV)
1. PERSEVERING UNDER PRESSURE REQUIRES
14What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?
James 2:14 (ESV)
2. PERSEVERING UNDER PRESSURE REQUIRES
11Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:11-13 (ESV)
3. PERSEVERING UNDER PRESSURE REQUIRES A
12Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. 14 But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.
James 1:12-14 (ESV)
13No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. 14 Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry. 1 Corinthians 10:13-14 (ESV)
22So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
2 Timothy 2:22-23
7Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
James 4:7 (ESV)
4. WHEN WE PERSEVERE UNDER PRESSURE, WE HAVE A