Persecution

persecution - I fear being persecuted because of my faith. How can I face the future with courage?

Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering.

1 Peter 4:12-13

That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

2 Corinthians 12:10

Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? . . . No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.

Romans 8:35, 37

THE EARLY CHURCH was constantly threatened with persecution. And yet, Peter and Paul encouraged these believers to pray not for the threats to end but for courage to face them. Sometimes God removes the things that frighten us. But more often, the Holy Spirit gives us boldness to turn those threats into opportunities to grow spiritually and declare our faith. Ask God to help you see beyond the immediate crisis and place both your current problem and your eternal future in his hands. When fear grips your heart, hold on to the truth that nothing will ever be able to separate you from the love of Christ.

Prayer Prompts

Lord, when I think about the possibility of facing persecution, I feel . . .

Your Word inspires me to be bold because it promises . . .