As members of the one body, and those who have believed the truth as given through

the ministry of the prisoner of the Lord, we have a tribulation connected therewith, not a

tribulation connected with the kingdom, but nevertheless a real one. We too need much

patience, we too may overcome, we too must hold fast the faithful word. Though our

destinies may be different from those who will reign in the millennial kingdom, there are

many close parallels so far as our conduct and experiences are concerned. May we be

encouraged to overcome, remembering for our encouragement how verse 9 reads on from

verse 8, where we see the "Almighty" ready to help in time of need.