Let’s take some time to talk about people being persecuted for their faith.  It’s happening all over the world.  It’s been happening for generation after generation.

• People are mocking others for their Christian faith.
• People are shaming Christians because of their beliefs.
• People are murdering each other for claiming to be Christians.  

 

Dear Christian, we were warned about this. It was prophesied a long, long time ago,  Ages ago we were told that Christ and His followers would be persecuted.  

 

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. I Peter 4:12-14

 

Why are we surprised by the persecution?  Why are we appalled at the actions being taken against our Christian brothers and sisters?  Why are we outraged when we read the news to learn of these things?

 

Open your eyes.  We have long been in this battle.  Are you ready to finally join the fight?   Get on your knees and take on the full armor of God.  AND REJOICE!  We wouldn’t be on the receiving end of this persecution if others weren’t fearful of the truth of the message of Jesus Christ.  PERIOD.

 

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.  Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.  Therefore put on the full armor of God,so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.  Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.  In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.  Ephesians 6:10-18

 

For a powerful way to drive this home, I encourage you to read up on the sermon linked below by John Calvin.  POWERFUL!

 

And then there’s this… NEVER forget this:

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”  Deuteronomy 31:8

 

More links:

Verses:  Persecution

Calvin sermon:  On Suffering Persecution