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Persecution

 

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5:3-4)

His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah. (Acts 5:40-42) 

          A friend loaned me a book that provides an inside view of what the Huguenots (French Protestants) faced in the late 1600s. If you read Fox’s Book of Martyrs, you’ll discover the horrors faced by other Christians. According to Aid to the Church in Need, 2019 was one of the bloodiest years ever in terms of attacks on Christians.[1] I don’t know the parameters they used, and I don’t know whether or not they are accurate in that claim, but I do know that attacks on Christians seem to be increasing, and I’ve read Daniel and Revelation. I have a tiny clue about what’s coming at some point.

          Quite frankly, I can’t imagine not recanting if the choice to were to recant or face what the girl in the book I’m reading faced. I can’t imagine being as strong as she’s depicted. Even more, I can’t imagine considering it an honor to be tortured, as the apostles did. I am greatly convinced of my weakness, but I am also greatly convinced that God can give the grace needed to survive such torment. My hope, should that day come, is not in my courage, strength, or will, but in God’s mercy and provision.

          I’ve read of people who put themselves on diets of moldy, maggoty bread and rotten fruit to prepare

          I know a lot of people who are less fond of confrontation than they believe I am. I don’t actually like confrontation, either, but I’m trying to learn to handle it better. One of the things I need to do is what I’ve been talking about frequently of late – to turn my focus to God instead of blaming or pitying myself. Another is to study even harder. Becoming physically stronger may help a little, but deepening my faith in God through the Word, that’s a better answer.

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