The bible tells us to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you..." (Matt. 5:44). This is a very hard thing to do, and especially hard to do it sincerely. These past few days I have really been tried by those who don't believe in God, think it's not cool to believe in God around certain groups of people, and people who are just plain hateful. As Christians, we have to remember that we always have to strive to become more like Jesus. That means loving those who might not love us and praying for those who don't believe in prayer. Several times in my life I've been one of those who didn't stand up for God because I was too timid and/or thought it wouldn't please those around me. I'm happy to say that part of me is dead and gone. No more sitting back and letting others push me around. I've matured enough now that I can stand up for God and what I believe in regardless of who thinks it's the cool thing to do. I'm going to serve as an example to others in hopes that they will come to the Lord and grow stronger in Him.
This doesn't come easily, though. 1 John 3:13 says, "Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you." And 2 Timothy 3:12 says, "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." There are going to be some people who just cannot and will not come to Christ. We have to accept the things we cannot change, but that doesn't mean we should stop praying for those people or serving as an example for them. We can rest assured that God will do the punishing for their behavior, but we cannot fall to their level. "Have a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame, for it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil" (1 Peter 3:16-17). We may feel like we are losing "friends" and feel very alone at times, but just remember, God is always there, unconditionally, forever. "But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled" (1 Peter 3:14).
As Christians, we know that God is real. We are faithful that He is coming back someday. We just have to endure this world for a short time before His glory is revealed to everyone, including the non-believers. Don't you think it's worth it? I encourage you never to fall in your faith. Stand up for God. It's the least we can do after all. He sent His Son to die for us, so let's give our lives to Him. "Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin" -1 Peter 4:1
"Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when His glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you." -1 Peter 4:12-14
"Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life." -Revelation 2:10
I hope you take these words to heart.
-Brittany
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