Blessed is the person who keeps going when times are difficult. After they’ve made it through these times, they’ll receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to give to those who love him.
Don’t be afraid of what you’re going to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you’ll be mistreated for ten days. Be faithful, even if you have to die, and I’ll give you life as your victory crown.
Now there’s a crown waiting for me, the crown that’s given to those who are right with God. The Lord, who judges fairly, will give it to me on the day he returns, and not only to me, but also to all those who are longing for him to return.
Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy out loud, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart everything it says. The time when these things will come true is drawing near.
So remember what you’ve been taught and what you’ve heard. Hold firmly to it and turn away from your sins. If you don’t wake up, I’ll come like a thief, and you won’t know when I’m coming to you.
All around the throne there were 24 other thrones, and 24 elders were sitting on them. The elders were dressed in white, and they had gold crowns on their heads.
‘I know that even though you live where Satan has his throne, you’re still faithful to me. You didn’t give up your faith even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city, where Satan lives.
“Look! I’m coming like a thief! Blessed is anyone who stays awake and keeps their clothes on. Then they’ll be ready, and they won’t be caught naked and be embarrassed.”