Christian Persecution is to be Expected!

Apostle Paul warned that:

“everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12)

and Jesus told us Himself that if they persecuted Him, they will also persecute His followers (John 15:20). We simply cannot escape this harsh reality.

We must fully accept that to walk with the Lord
means we will be hated by the world.
​
Why?

Because we love God and have chosen His way over man’s way. It really is that simple.
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If we were like the people of this world and indulged in things like,

vanity, earthly sensuality, acquiring monetary wealth,
and mocking those who do not “tow the party line.”

The world would not oppose us.

But we do not belong to the world……

We belong to God in heaven Who purchased us with
His own blood on the cross.

We are no longer motivated by the desires of the flesh.

We are motivated by the love of God and what is
​holy, righteous, and good in HIS EYES.

The world, by contrast, is driven by the love of sinful desires and fleeting moments of pleasure and indulgence,

and “it is this separation from the world
that arouses the world’s animosity.”
 
We choose God. They choose themselves.

But do not become saddened or downtrodden by this fact. James argues that trials test the Christian’s faith, develop endurance in life, and help develop maturity (James 1:2).
 
And this has certainly been my experience also.

As steel is tempered in the forge, trials and persecution
serve to strengthen the character and resolve of believers.

So, press on friends.
 
Thank God for His grace and patience with us.
 
Express gratitude for those whom we love in the Lord and who stand with us during these difficult times.
 
And continue to pray for those who accuse, misuse, or abuse us.
 
Peace be with you brothers and sisters in Christ.