August 14, 2021

August 14, 2021

Persecution

I truly believe that even if we aren’t actively experiencing it now, in the years to come, the American church will experience persecution.

That’s why it is so important that we strengthen our relationship with God right now—so that we are prepared to face persecution when it comes and still stand with Jesus. Because whether we want to face it or not, there is a trend in our culture that hates Christianity and all that the Bible teaches. Much like the Pharisees who thought they were doing God a favor by persecuting Jesus, many in our society believe they have the moral high ground and that they are doing the right thing when they persecute those who believe there is only one God, that the Bible is true, and God’s Word is to be obeyed.

While I understand that many are already experiencing a level of persecution in their personal lives, I truly believe that in the next decade we will see this persecution grow as the culture and the church continue to come into conflict.

How do we as followers of Jesus respond to this?

The same way that the Christians in the New Testament did—through an empowerment of the Holy Spirit that only comes from spending time with God in prayer and in His Word. This is an empowerment that comes from responding to the conviction of the Holy Spirit, from laying aside sin, and choosing to walk in step with the Holy Spirit.

It is only through this commitment to wholeheartedly following Jesus, to do whatever it takes, and to be filled with the Holy Spirit that we, like the twelve disciples, will be able to face any persecution that comes our way and stand as witnesses for Jesus.

It’s time we get serious. To determine in our hearts—whatever in takes, whoever or whatever comes against me, I will follow Jesus. The time to begin preparing is now.

Memory Verse: In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. (2 Timothy 3:12, NIV)

New International Version (NIV)

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