Matthew 5:10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for Righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.

 

Jesus’ Letter to the Church in Smyrna was short. And to the angel of the Church in Smyrna write, These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the Crown of Life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death. (John 1:8-11)

 

The Church in Smyrna was persecuted by non-believers. They are representative of the persecuted church today. While we are not persecuted to a great extent in America, that is not the case in many places around the world.

 

Throughout history, Christians have been martyred for their faith in Christ and it is still going on today. There is much to be found on this subject by searching the internet and studying Christian History. The fact is, Christians will be persecuted for their faith because Satan hates God and His children and his goal is to kill, steal, and destroy all believers in Christ Jesus.

 

So, we can expect to be persecuted but we must hold fast to these Words of Jesus: Blessed are those who are persecuted for Righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 5:10) Jesus spoke these Words during His Sermon on the Mount. This is a Promise of God to all believers.

 

Persecution is the attack of the Devil. God allows this to happen as a test of our faith. Just as He allowed Job to be tested, He allows us. If you are being persecuted in school, the workplace, or anywhere else, understand that God is testing your faith. Will you pass the test or will you fail?

 

Stand strong for Jesus Christ and Him Crucified. In this, our faith is founded and must remain. The enemy has already been defeated by Jesus on the Cross. He won the Victory for us. All we have to do is believe in that Victory and walk in it. That is the faith God expects of His children.

 

The battles we face every day are tests of our faith. I pray you understand that you can rise above it all when you hold fast to your faith in Christ. Jesus said, Behold, I give you authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over ALL THE POWER OF THE ENEMY, and nothing shall by any means harm you. (Luke 10:19)

 

Be strong. Hold fast to your faith. The Victory has been won for you by Jesus on the Cross of Calvary. Hallelujah!

 

Don’t give up. God is about to….…….turn the tide

 

Standing strong for Jesus!         Doreen

 

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