Bible Reading: Ezra 9: 2 Timothy 3:10-17
“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution ” – 2 Timothy 3:12 (KJV).
Persecution is not alien to the Christian faith as some Christians suppose. Our master passed through persecution, leaving us an example to follow. A servant is not greater than his master, since they persecuted our master Jesus, we must equally prepare to be persecuted. Most Christians believe that since Jesus suffered for them, they are not meant to go through any form of suffering. While it is clearly stated that believers should not go through some sufferings, it should be understood that believers are not exempted from persecution and trial of faith.
Christians should not suffer the dominion and oppression of sin, sickness, infirmities, poverty, curses and demonic afflictions because redemption frees us from such sufferings with Jesus as our substitute. It must be understood, however, that preaching the gospel of Christ and living the Christian life in this world will expose us to ridicule, mockery, denial, rejection, attack and every expression of the world’s hatred for Jesus and the gospel. We should be prepared to go through such trials with joy knowing that it is a privilege to identify with Christ in his sufferings.
The Christian life and preaching the gospel could stir up the wrath of the ungodly and this could result to imprisonment, stoning and even death. Some Christians are constantly living with the threat of death and imprisonment; some are denied shelter, food, access to their family and loved ones for the sake of their faith.
Anyone that is prepared to live godly without compromise must of necessity be hated by the world. Jesus clearly told us that in the world we will have tribulation but in him we will have peace.
PRAYER: Oh Lord, strengthen my heart and faith to stand trials in Jesus name.
Rev. Vincent Diolu
