Christians are facing increasing persecution around the world. Some of our brothers and sisters in Christ face grave physical danger, and we should be praying for them daily.
But even in countries where we are not in physical danger, Christians are being misquoted, misunderstood, and misrepresented.
Jesus told us this would happen:
“You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Matthew 10:22
Persecution causes true believers to refine their faith:
"In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." 1 Peter 1:6-7
Persecution causes false believers to redefine their faith:
"In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived." 2 Timothy 3:12-13
For examples of those redefining Christianity see Wilderness Wanderers.
Stand firm, dear Christians. He died for us. May we live for Him!
💙Beyond 1-minute for those who want more:
“Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division....” Luke 12:51
"Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:10
"Strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. 'We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,' they said." Acts 14:22
"Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10
“Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Matthew 24:12-13
A personal note:
Please pray for Bible Love Notes. We are beginning to see censorship on social media and in other internet situations. We must be “as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). Pray that we will have wisdom in finding safe ways to “get the Word out.” We genuinely feel that all Christians are being called to prepare for creative ways of keeping the gospel available and uncensored.
Praying for this ministry and those who are a part of it. Thank you for sharing daily. Thank you for not wavering in the face of adversity. Continue to stand BOLDLY and remain courageous in the faith as the gospel message is shared through this ministry. I pray for the power and strength of the Holy Spirit remain with you both in the coming days.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you both in the coming days!
Your brother in Christ Jesus,
Rob Edwards
Minister of the Gospel <><
Thanks so much for your prayers and encouragement, Robb.
DeleteMay God bless your ministry as well.
Gail
Father God, I pray that Michael and Gail would continue this ministry that You have given them without persecution. That you would keep them safe and give them wisdom and creativity in keeping God’s Word available to us who have eyes to see and ears to hear, who hunger and thirst for You. I pray that they would stay strong and hold fast to Your Truth until the day of Your return. In Jesus Name Amen
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your prayers and encouragement, Inez.
DeleteMay God give all of us strength to stand.
Gail
I look forward to getting your emails each day, and forward them to friends, quite often. I am, and will be in prayer for you, and this wonderful ministry that you provide for us.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your prayers and encouragement, Diane.
DeleteI appreciate you sharing with friends as well.
God bless you.
Gail
Thank you, dear ones, for standing firm and preaching the Word! I will pray for you and your ministry!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your encouragement and prayers, Jersey Granny.
DeleteGod bless you.
Gail
Growing up in what was called 'A Christian Nation' I never would have foreseen the persecution in this country. However, it is all around us. Shots are being fired from politic members, Hollywood, the mass media, and the school system. No wonder our nation is falling apart. I will add you to my prayer list and continue to share your posts with others.
ReplyDeleteRick
Thank you so much, Rick, for your prayers.
DeleteYes, I agree completely. Immorality is definitely being exalted in our country and those who speak against it are being silenced. Even 10 years ago I wouldn't have imagined how far we would come in that direction.
And being raised in the 50's and 60's makes our present cultural values even more bazaar for me.
We must learn how to stand firm and we can only do it if we look to our Lord for strength.
Praying, Gail, for wisdom and discernment as you navigate social media and find ways to keep the devotionals coming. Praying seems almost selfish because I am blessed each day as I read multiple devotionals, following the links to go deeper/wider. God bless your ministry and continue to use it to build us up.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Laurel. I am encouraged by your prayers.
Delete