1 Thessalonians 3:4 (ESV) — 4 For when we were with you, we kept telling you
beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and
just as you know.
NOTE: While this may
be specific to the Thessalonians, other passages make it clear that it is the
expected life for the believer. It may be more telling when we are not
experiencing affliction -- that we do not have a witness that challenges people
in their lifestyle. Overall, I do not experience affliction on the same scale
as the Thessalonians or much of the first century church. While my nation has turned its
back on God, promoted sinful behaviors and attitudes, it has not yet put me in
danger of physical violence. There are some groups who are attacking
believers for standing up for the gospel. These groups, while expressing free
speech, are opposed to any speech with which they do not like. People,
Christians, are being attacked for their faith in this country. It is here and
it is growing in influence as a godless nation takes root.
PRAYER: Father, open
the eyes of my nation to their wickedness. Convict us of our sin. Give
Christians the boldness to stand up and to be a witness for the name of Jesus.
May we not shrink back.
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