We humans have an aversion to pain. Many have taken comfort in the promise to the Philadelephian church. Unfortunately, some following the 'Conventional Wisdom Paraphrase' have projected a sense of exclusiveness onto this verse. The emphasis is on the behavior of the individual rather than on any corporate body. All the messages to all seven churches are meant to be taken by all. Because the influence of the Beast is so dominant, no one will escape totally, but perseverance, endurance, patience, steadfastness, and resistance will be required of all of us. The greater Church of God will evidently still be divided at this time, while people will be pressured into sin and compromise. If we persevere, Christ will save us from the worst of the trials, as a college professor may omit the final exam to those that have maintained an A average. If we have frittered away the time, we may well be forced to take the gruesome final exam. Without God, we are all dead men.