Reading: Matthew 6:19-24

Devotional: In our letter to Smyrna, Jesus reminds the church that despite their poverty, they are rich. This paradox challenges our worldly perspective on wealth and success. Today's reading urges us to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. Reflect on what you consider your greatest treasures. Are they material possessions or spiritual blessings? Consider how your priorities align with God's kingdom values. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas where you might be overly focused on earthly riches and guide you towards investing in eternal treasures. Remember, true wealth is found in our relationship with Christ and the spiritual inheritance He provides.

Reading: James 1:2-12

Devotional: The church in Smyrna faced intense persecution, yet Jesus encouraged them to remain faithful. James echoes this sentiment, urging believers to consider trials as joy because they produce steadfastness. Today, ponder a current challenge in your life. How might God be using this difficulty to refine your faith? Instead of praying for an immediate escape, ask for the strength to endure and grow through the trial. Remember that God promises a crown of life to those who remain steadfast under testing. Let this promise fuel your perseverance and deepen your trust in God's purpose for your struggles.

Reading: 1 Peter 2:9-10

Devotional: In Smyrna, believers faced slander and misrepresentation. Yet Jesus affirmed their true identity. Today's reading reminds us of our profound identity in Christ. We are chosen, royal, and holy - God's special possession. Reflect on how the world might misunderstand or mislabel you because of your faith. Then, meditate on how God sees you. Allow His perspective to override any negative voices. How might embracing your identity as God's beloved change the way you face opposition or misunderstanding? Pray for the courage to live out your true identity in Christ, even when it goes against societal norms or expectations.

Reading: Romans 8:35-39

Devotional: Jesus warned the Smyrna church about impending suffering but assured them of His awareness and presence. Paul's words to the Romans reinforce this truth - nothing can separate us from God's love. As you read, consider times when you've felt distant from God during hardship. How does the promise of His unbreakable love comfort you? Reflect on how God's presence has sustained you in past trials. Take time to thank Him for specific instances of His faithfulness. If you're currently in a difficult season, invite God's love to permeate your circumstances, trusting that He is with you and for you, no matter what you face.

Reading: Revelation 21:1-7

Devotional: Jesus promised the faithful in Smyrna a victor's crown and protection from the second death. Our reading today gives us a glimpse of the ultimate victory - eternity with God. As you read, imagine the reality of a new heaven and earth where there is no more death, mourning, or pain. How does this eternal perspective change your view of current struggles? Reflect on areas of your life where you need renewed hope. Ask God to strengthen your faith with this eternal vision. Consider how you might live differently today if you consistently viewed your life through the lens of eternity. Close by thanking God for the hope of glory that awaits all who persevere in faith.

This discussion guide is based on Pastor DJ's sermon "Training for Trials" from the series Altars Everywhere - Volume 2.  We encourage you to continue the discussion with a few friends in your HOW Church community!

Opening Prayer: Begin with a prayer asking God to open our hearts and minds to His message and to guide our discussion.

Key Takeaways:

1. Jesus encourages the church in Smyrna to have a divine perspective on prosperity, opposition, and testing.
2. True riches are not material but spiritual, found in our relationship with Christ.
3. Trials and opposition are opportunities for spiritual growth and refinement.

Discussion Questions:

1. Divine Perspective on Prosperity:
   • How does Jesus' statement "I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich!" challenge our worldly understanding of wealth?
   • In what ways might we be spiritually rich despite material poverty?
   • How can we shift our focus from earthly treasures to heavenly ones?
2. Firm Outlook on Opposition:
   • The Smyrna church faced slander and opposition. How do you handle misunderstanding or mislabeling from others because of your faith?
   • What comfort can we draw from knowing that Jesus sees and knows our true selves and our works?
   • How can we maintain our faith and integrity in a world that often opposes Christian values?
3. Training Your Heart for Testing:
   • Jesus warns the church about upcoming suffering but encourages them not to fear. How can we prepare our hearts for potential trials?
   • What does it mean to you that "trials are not a sign of His absence, but His refinement"?
   • How has your faith been strengthened through past trials or tests?
4. Reflection on Smyrna's Context:
   • The city of Smyrna had a history of death and resurrection. How does this relate to our Christian journey and Jesus' description of Himself?
   • How might understanding the historical context of Smyrna help us apply this message to our lives today?

Practical Applications:

1. Treasure Audit: Take time this week to list your "treasures." Reflect on where you're investing most of your time, energy, and resources. Are they aligned with heavenly values?
2. Opposition Response Plan: Develop a personal plan for responding to opposition or misunderstanding because of your faith. Include scripture verses for encouragement and specific actions to take.
3. Trial Training: Identify an area in your life where you're facing challenges. Create a "spiritual workout plan" to strengthen your faith in this area through prayer, scripture study, and accountability.
4. Gratitude Journal: Start a daily practice of writing down spiritual riches you're grateful for, especially during times of material lack or difficulty.

Closing Prayer: Close the session by thanking God for His faithfulness, asking for strength in trials, and for a perspective that values eternal riches over temporary ones.