Persecution

May 28th – 2 Timothy 3:1

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2 Timothy 3:1

Many people mistakenly believe that being a Christian guarantees a life of smooth sailing, free from trials and tribulations. However Jesus promised exactly the opposite. He assured us that we would face hardships, persecution, and challenges because of our faith. And as we draw closer to His return, these difficulties will intensify for followers of Christ. The world will grow increasingly hostile towards those who uphold biblical truths and live according to God’s standards. Yet despite these challenges, we are called to remain steadfast and faithful, knowing that our sufferings are not in vain. Because it’s through our trials in which our faith is refined and our dependence on God deepened. That’s why the promise of His return gives us hope and strength to endure. For Jesus has overcome the world, and He will be with us through every storm. We can trust in His unfailing love and the ultimate victory we have in Him. So as we await His return, let us cling to our faith and in the eternal glory that awaits us.

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March 5th – Matthew 27:14

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Matthew 27:14

I can’t begin to imagine standing before a judge, accused of crimes worthy of death, and not defending myself. That’s why it’s hard to fathom the depth of Jesus’ humility and selflessness as He did just that. Brought before Pilate, the Lord Jesus faced false allegations and unjust condemnation. Het despite the weight of the charges and the magnitude of the moment, Jesus chose to remain silent. His choice speaks volumes, reflecting His unwavering commitment to fulfill the Father’s will and His trust in God’s ultimate plan. In the face of injustice and persecution, Jesus stands firm, resolute in His mission to redeem humanity. As we reflect on Jesus’ silence, may it serve as a profound reminder of His steadfastness and unwavering faithfulness, even in the most challenging circumstances. Let us draw inspiration from His example, asking God for the strength and courage to stand firm in our own faith, even when faced with opposition or adversity. And remain steadfast in our commitment to follow Him.

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February 21st – 1 John 3:1

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1 John 3:1

As Christians, we often find ourselves feeling out of place in this world. That’s because we follow our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who is rejected by the world. This side of heaven is ruled by Satan, and so it operates according to self interest, materialism, and power. But our commitment to following Jesus means that we are called to live lives of love, humility, and selflessness. To be salt and light in a dark and broken world. This often means that we’ll face opposition or persecution for our beliefs. However, our citizenship is in heaven, and our ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom, not the ways of this world. So our souls can resonate with joy as we embrace our identity as beloved children of the Most High, destined for greatness in His kingdom. In the shelter of His love, we find refuge from the storms of life. Because we are deeply valued and irrevocably cherished by our Heavenly Father. With every breath, we celebrate the privilege of being called His own, basking in the radiance of His love that knows no bounds.

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September 22nd – Luke 12:8

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Luke 12:8

“I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God.”

These days it seems you can’t listen to the news without hearing stories of Christians being persecuted or killed, with little public outcry. Not surprising from a world that rejects Jesus. And as times become more perilous, we as followers need to be prepared and aware. Because Christianity is under attack. And it will grow more so until the return of Jesus. That’s why we are encouraged to stand strong, and continue to openly, proudly, and boldly acknowledge our faith in Christ. To live out our faith authentically and share the message of salvation with those around us. When we openly acknowledge Jesus as our Lord and Savior, it’s a public declaration of our allegiance to Him. And when we do, Jesus in turn promises to acknowledge us before God and the angels. This means that in the divine court of heaven, Jesus will speak on our behalf, affirming our faith and relationship with Him. He will vouch, intercede, and advocate for our acceptance into God’s presence.

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April 27th – John 15:19

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John 15:19

The pull of sin is a strong one. And each day is a fight to remain in Jesus and bear faithful fruit for His kingdom. To obediently live a life separate from the wickedness of the world. And to be known by that world as not one of their own. Why? Because we have been chosen by the hand of God Himself. Chosen out of this world to be soldiers in His army. As such, we are to daily put on our uniform of the armor of God, ready to do battle. (Eph. 6:10-18) Yet Jesus warns that because we follow His ways and not the sinful ways of the world, we will hated for His sake. That’s why we shouldn’t be surprised when we face opposition or persecution because of our faith. Rather, we should consider it an honor to suffer for our Lord who suffered unto death for us. And have joyful hearts knowing that Jesus has chosen and called us out of the world, and to Him do we belong!

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March 18th – 2 Corinthians 12:10

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2 Corinthians 12:10

Although we aren’t told specifically what Paul’s thorn was, we can relate to the suffering he endured. Because whether it be emotional, physical, or spiritual, each of us have our own thorns to bear. Thorns for which we have pleaded with God to remove. And sometimes He’ll do just that. But what happens when His answer is no? It’s then Paul tells us to rejoice for the blessing of our sufferings. For although the thorn may remain, God is at work strengthening the one under it. Often it’s at our lowest times when God can do His greatest work. Because our weakness is an opportunity for God to work through us and show His strength. And by surrendering all to God, relying on His might rather than our own, not only can we deepen our relationship with Him, we can find joy in difficult circumstances because they allow us to experience His power in a unique way.

 

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December 6th – Matthew 24:13

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Matthew 24:13

One of the things I love most about God is His great love for us. There is nothing we can do, buy, or earn to climb our way to the Father. So He climbed down to us. Our mighty King traded His majestic throne in heaven for a bed of wood and hay. The Lamb of God came as a humble, helpless child, but the Lion of Judah will return as our conquering King and Ruler of all. Jesus made it clear that the life of a Christian will be filled with trials, persecution, and peril. Yet for those who stand strong in their faith until the end, no matter the circumstances, God promises deliverance from their enemies. And even better, a life spent by His side filled with eternal love and peace. As we bring this turbulent year to a close, the holiday season is a much needed time of joy, thankfulness, and festivities. And while we celebrate the glorious birth of our Savior, it is also the perfect time to celebrate His promise to save all who persevere!

 

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September 6th – Psalm 2:5

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Psalm 2:5

When we think about countries that persecute Christians, America isn’t usually the first to pop up in your mind. And while it’s far from the worst, the mistreatment of believers is getting progressively worse. Whether we are slandered, mocked, or “canceled”, intolerance for followers of Christ is wearing thin. Yet we needn’t fear those who can kill the body but not our souls. (Matt. 10:28) Because God has an a appointed day when He will deal with all the peoples of the earth who reject Him, His Son, and His children. They will taste God’s anger, and be terrified of His wrath poured out through the return of Christ. Jesus is the mighty eternal King of all creation, against whom no ruler or army can stand. He will break the nations with a “rod of iron”, (Ps. 2:9) and will reign forever. So stand strong, and be courageous. Because the Lord will have His day of reckoning. (Is. 2:12) And that day is coming quickly.

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August 31st – Hebrews 11:25

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Hebrews 11:25

Would you willingly leave a life of comfort and ease for one one of suffering and certain death? Silly question right? Yet that’s exactly what Moses did and he’s in great company. Because our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, did the same. Living a privileged life in Pharaoh’s house, Moses had it all. Yet he walked away to serve God and His people, fulling knowing the suffering he would endure. Moses purposely choose the everlasting joy of serving God than the fleeting pleasure of a life of sin. Not to say that it was easy. Moses faced persecution, suffering, and death, time and time again. But he knew the heavenly reward waiting for him would surpass anything this life can offer. Jesus did the same. King and Creator of all, the Lord left His throne of majesty to come to earth to die a criminal’s death to offer us life. Both of them chose God over the riches of the world, and so should we.

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August 29th – Acts 5:41

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Acts 5:41

When the Council of Pharisees and the chief priests had Peter and the apostles beaten for spreading the message of Jesus, you’d think they would have stopped preaching. But instead, bloodied and bruised, they rejoiced for being worthy of suffering for the Lord. As Christians we risk persecution and even physical safety for sharing the gospel. Yet like Peter, instead of defeating us, it should empower us to stand firm in faith. For God tells us to consider it a great blessing to suffer and identify with our Savior. Because the Enemy saves his greatest attacks for the strongest of Christians. Those who are actively working for God in expanding His kingdom. The last thing he wants is for us to share the Good News of Jesus and rip souls out of his hands. But that’s what we are called to do, and we need to have courage and determination to serve God above all else. So rejoice when you have the honor of suffering for Jesus, the One who suffered to save you!

August 29th – Acts 5:41 Read More »