To the beloved brethren and faithful saints scattered abroad, who stand in the midst of trial, affliction, and reproach for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ:
Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, making mention of you always in my prayers, hearing of your steadfast faith in Christ and the love which ye continue to show one toward another, even in difficult times. Though many miles separate us in body, yet are we joined together in one Spirit, one faith, one Lord, and one eternal hope.
Beloved, be not discouraged because of the fiery trials which surround you, as though some strange thing hath happened unto you. Our Lord Himself was despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. The servant is not greater than his Lord. If the world hated Him, it shall also hate those who walk in His truth.
Yet remember this, dear brethren: your labor is not forgotten before God. Every prayer uttered in secret, every tear shed in loneliness, every fearful night, every quiet gathering in hidden places, every whispered hymn of praise, and every faithful witness borne before men is known unto the Lord.
Many here remember you daily before the throne of grace. We pray that the Lord would strengthen your hearts with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that He would place His holy angels round about you for protection; that He would give boldness unto your pastors and leaders; and that He would fill your homes with His peace which passeth all understanding.
We have heard of your faithfulness and are greatly encouraged by your testimony. In lands where darkness grows heavy, your light shines even brighter. In times when many grow cold and fearful, your courage reminds the Church throughout the world that Christ is worthy of all devotion.
Be steadfast therefore, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. Hold fast the profession of your faith without wavering. The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Though earthly kingdoms rage and the hearts of men fail them for fear, yet our King still reigneth upon His throne. The kingdoms of this world shall pass away, but the Kingdom of our God shall endure forever.
Remember the words of our blessed Savior:
“Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32)
And again:
“In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Brethren, faint not. The Lord is near unto them that are of a broken heart. He shall never leave thee nor forsake thee. The day is coming when every prison door shall be opened, every burden laid down, every tear wiped away, and the saints of God from every nation, tongue, and people shall stand together before the throne clothed in white robes, singing praises unto the Lamb forevermore.
Until that glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, continue in prayer, continue in love, continue in holiness, and continue in hope.
Now the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered awhile, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
Amen.
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