We are to TRUST GOD not to listen to PEOPLE, what they say, how they try to bring us down at every chance, but TRUST IN GOD. When in the face of persecution for the Lord's sake…..we can either RUN or FIGHT.
We can't fight without our Spiritual armor on. Turn to Ephesians 6:10-11 "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes." We are told in Proverbs "Trust in God" the word rings out over and over. Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." He will show you the way.
If we Trust in God----He promises us MUCH claim these promises. Isaiah 54:17, " no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me, declares the Lord." Those who condemn us… will in turn be judged, those who use the tongue to discredit us will be judged.
We are his servants, what right has any other to Judge or condemn us? This is the heritage of His servants as the scripture just reported. Exodus 14:13-14 "Moses answered the people, Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."
The Lord himself will fight for you. If we hold our peace 'Let the Lord do His Will'. He is the ONE who restores PEACE. As we place complete Trust in Him. When a victim of persecution remains faithful to the Lord and refuses to sin (retaliate) or seek vengence. God gains a victory over satan. The power of satan is thwarted, his influence is diminished and a greater strength emerges not only in the righteous "victim"; but also in all those who "witness" the ACTIONS of the righteous "victim".
At the same time when a victim turns to the Lord for help wisdom sustenance. The Lord has the opportunity to reveal Himself to that victim as never before. He gives greater insight to His nature, His purpose, and the relationship. He desires to have with that person a deeper awareness is given to the Lord's presence and POWER. Ask the Lord to sustain YOU. Psalms 55:22 "Cast your cares on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall." Ask Him to strengthen YOU. Psalm 27:14, 31:24, and 119:28.
So, don't wallow in fear, doubt, or feel lessened by persecution. Ask the Lord to sustain and strengthen YOU. Scripture says much on those who endure. The victor's crown goes to all who run the race all the way to the end. Don't give up because "people" discourage YOU. We need Him; we can't do it alone. James 5:11, 1Peter 2:19, 2 Timothy 4:7-8. We can't let others steal our crown endure patiently God is with you.
A reward is given to those who withstand. Don't let the words of others take us from our walk to make us despair or doubt or have fear. Trust only God in other words. Luke 6:13
A blessing is granted to those who overcome and who stand firm in their faith. 1 Peter 3:9
If you are feeling Persecuted as the Lord to help you not to sin by seeking vengence or to become weak or fearful. Ask Him to let you respond in a way that He receives glory and honor. Ask the Lord to reveal Himself to you as your Victor, your Savior, and your Deliever.
To really understand persecution we MUST know the battle is really the Lord's. But our armor will keep us ready having done all you can to "arm yourself endure in PRAYER. Pray for those who persecute you, pray that God move in their hearts. Preserve, don't give up!!!! Look for VICTORY!!! When storms of "abuse", rage against us Bind yourself to the mast of the Lord Jesus and hold on tight. Never lose sight of the Goal. The reason you are enduring pain and rejection Matthew 5:10-12 "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
Persecution is but for a "season". The words of persecutor's accusations maybe painful but they are as words evaporating in the wind. Sooo, in that light what is persecution by others compared to the eternal rewards and the assurance that you will be a resident of the Kingdom of Heaven forevermore? In addition to our ETERNAL rewards there are rewards for here and now. Persecutions: Strengthen our FAITH! They toughen us in our resolve to win souls now cause a refinement of our souls…… give us greater cause to Praise His Name.
The "SCARS" of the faithful are acquired through persecution. We "grow" through persecution. The Lord may be teaching us to be better soldiers in the Army of the faithful. Sooooo that being the case; If you are experiencing persecution for the Lord's sake, dig in your heels, Cling to Jesus. Endure until the Lord gives the VICTORY. Praise the Name of Jesus In whom ALL VICTORY COMES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
