Bible-Prayer-Europe Equipping Center

Persecution

Jesus suffered persecution and His followers can also expect persecution.

Persecution means to afflict or harass constantly, so as to injure or distress. (Webster's Collegiate Dictionary) It also means to oppress cruelly, or annoy constantly. Persecution comes through people.

A Christian, who is truly following the Lord Jesus, will experience times of persecution. Therefore, the Bible clearly states the pattern for conduct for a believer during persecution.

Realize that God will bring an end to the persecution. Therefore, determine in your heart to endure to the end. Determine to trust God to bring you through and to help you to outlast the enemy. The Apostle Paul stated "…what persecutions I endured; but out of them all the Lord delivered me". ( II Timothy 3.10-11)

Keep the persecution in perspective. Don't let the persecution deter you (stop you or get you off course) from achieving the daily goals that God has set for your life. Realize that persecution is just a part of the normal Christian life. Persecution can only stop you if you allow it to do so--because the greater One lives in you and you are more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus. (I Peter 4.12)

Rejoice and take pleasure in persecution. This can only be done through the Holy Spirit's power alone. Choose to rejoice and the Holy Spirit will enable you to truly take pleasure in persecution. (II Corinthians 12.10)

Don't be terrified by your adversaries or persecutors-- neither get entangled in an argument with them. Instead, " Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you, and persecute you." (Matthew 5.44)

Realize your own weakness and your total dependence on Jesus. Jesus is your source of strength. You will never be defeated with Christ Jesus in control. (II Corinthians 12.9)

In Christ,

Bobbie