Persecution

Good Morning,

2 Timothy 3:12 “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 

As a young Christian, I memorized this verse and wondered if I was, “godly;” I did not feel as though I was suffering in a great persecution. As the years passed in my life, and I began to make an impact, I realized there was definitely a restrained enemy and that I was shielded by the mercy of God; but nonetheless, it was obvious that someone was pursuing me.

You may not see persecution like some generations did, with Christians burned at the stake or buried alive, but it is very likely that you are under the watchful eye of Satan today.  He will persecute the child of God, and as much as God allows, he will abuse every believer who is making a difference for God and for good.

Peter says as much about our suffering as does Paul. Our suffering may simply be the confusion with medical records or trying to get doctor appointments, or the harassment you may feel on the job; things that do not seem to be related to God, the Bible, or church. Do not be surprised if there is a satanic force working behind the scenes.

We certainly need to remember that there is a satanic war in the political realm. There is no doubt that Satan works to use the government to hinder the work of God. The wicked one is not pleased with your marriage, your family, your church, or any influence you may have for common decency. Certainly, Satan has no use for a government of decency. Any political leader seeking to shift our nation to right will find himself under attack from more places than he can imagine. The devil’s resources are broad and deeply rooted in society.

If Satan cannot persuade the believer to do wrong, he will begin to work on his spouse or children. From there, the demonic attacks can take place at the school, at a place of business, or, of course, in the church. You will not read far into the New Testament before you find corruption among believers. This is no attack or slander to the church; it is simply a statement that Satan attacks anything that is good or will accomplish the will of God. In the New Testament church, there are attacks on doctrine, morals, money, and simple division. These tactics are not new; the wicked one has used them for centuries.    

If you find yourself feeling beat up by life (unless you are stupid enough to have slipped into the snares of drugs, liquor, bitterness, vengeance, greed, and similar acts of the flesh), you are probably doing right, pleasing to God, and under the attack and persecution that comes to all who will live godly in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:12 “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 

Pastor