Charles Ellicott Commentary Revelation 3:10

"Because thou didst keep the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of trial, that [hour] which is to come upon the whole world, to try them that dwell upon the earth." — Revelation 3:10 (ASV)

Because thou hast kept (better, did keep) the word of my patience.—The one who keeps God’s word is kept. Such is “the benigna talio of the kingdom of God,” as Archbishop Trench calls it. The promise does not mean being kept away from, but being kept out of the tribulation. The head should be kept above the waters; they should not be ashamed, because they had kept the word of patience. It is through patience, as well as comfort of the Scripture, that we have the hope which maketh not ashamed. (Compare to Romans 15:5, and Revelation 3:3-5.)