Revelation 2:9; But Thou Art Rich

Revelation 2:9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.

Jesus says to His disciples in Mark 8:34-35 And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it.

Our Lord identified the church of Smyrna as His true disciples. Their commitment to follow Jesus was attested by their good works. They were not intimidated by the persecution that came upon them, they were pressed to the breakpoint. They were bereaved of their material goods.

Jesus illustrated discipleship to building a tower when He said in Luke 14:27-30 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.

They have counted the cost and were willing to endure the suffering. They paid the price. It cost them dearly. Our Lord ascribed riches to their eternal spiritual bank account.

What a testimony. Dear brethren, are you facing hardship because you have sought to obey the Lord? Thou art rich! Be assured of the Lord’s blessing upon you as you walk with Him. Amen.