Jesus Knows

I know that a lot of people feel all alone in life, especially when they begin to suffer through some of what life has in store for them. We have spoken in many of these words of encouragement the truth that we are not alone; that if we are faithful to God, He is watching and will take care of us, even if we lose our lives in faithfulness.

In every one of the letters to the churches of Asia, Jesus wanted Christians to know that He knew what is going on in their lives. He knew when they did a good work. He knew when they sinned. And He knew when they suffered.

To the church in Pergamum He said, “I know where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is; and you hold fast My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days of Antipas, My witness, My faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells” (Revelation 2:13). Now, the book of Revelation is primarily a book of encouragement to suffering saints. These were Christians who were suffering terrible persecution and Jesus wanted them to know that He was with them and that they would eventually overcome if they remained faithful (see Revelation 2:10). But where was Jesus when Antipas died? Was He not able to deliver Antipas? Did He let Antipas down?

No! He did NOT let Antipas down!! He knew what was happening and Antipas was by no means the only faithful witness of Jesus Christ who died in that 200 years of persecution. Yes, He knew! When you read the rest of Revelation and realize that those who gave their lives in that persecution are right now reigning with Jesus (Revelation 20:4-6), you see that Jesus did indeed take care of them. Dying is not the worst that can happen to a Christian. Being unfaithful is far worse.

I know that some of you are suffering right now. I know that a few of you may feel like no one knows or cares that you are suffering so severely. I want you to know that Jesus knows. And He cares. I may not know the details, but I care, too. And so do your faithful brothers and sisters in Christ. None of us is in this alone, praise God. As you start another week, trying your best to serve God faithfully even though you have many enemies on every side, please know that God loves you and so do I.