Which of us knows how much more individual spiritual growth is needed for us to be ready to inherit the Kingdom of God? If the fire of the Tribulation—as horrific as it is described—is what will completely purify us, is that not a small price to pay for an eternal place in the Kingdom? On the other hand, does it require greater faith "to be accounted worthy to escape" (Luke 21:36) or to go through the Tribulation, glorifying God with a stunning witness of faithfulness in the midst of a world breaking apart? The issue of who goes through the Tribulation and why is not as clear-cut as we might suppose—unless we change our perspective to see it in terms of God's will.

Consider two of the letters in Revelation 2 and 3. The better known is the letter to Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13). In it, Jesus Christ promises, "Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth" (verse 10; emphasis ours throughout). It is no wonder that being a Philadelphian is so greatly desired! But also notice His statement that seems to be a slight detraction: "for you have a little strength" (verse 8). This church with a little strength—but a great deal of perseverance—is the one that will be kept from the hour of trial. No mention is made of the church's visibility, effectiveness, or influence. God judges according to faithfulness, not according to the results—for He determines the results anyway.

Contrast this with the letter to the church in Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11), in which nothing negative is written. There is not even a hint of detraction with Smyrna. What does God's providence hold for this church to which He gives no written correction?

Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. (Revelation 2:10)

Why does God allow these apparently model saints to suffer? Why does God not deliver this singular group from the ignominy of prison and tribulation? The letter does not give us the answer, but it is reasonable to conclude that it is because God is working out far more than physical protection. He is preparing a people who are worthy of the crown of life that can only come from Him.

Our human preference, though, is for the shielded life of a Philadelphian rather than the tested, tempered, uncomfortable, perhaps brutal, life of a seemingly flawless Smyrnan. By itself, this desire is not wrong, but if it is not kept in check, we could be tempted to compromise or swayed by men assuring safety and guaranteeing our standing with God. But if our trust is in God, we can echo Christ's words when He was contemplating His own trial and persecution:

O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done. (Matthew 26:42)