“I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:9-10, NKJV)” In John 16 Jesus tells us that the world (a system or way of life) will hate Him and His true followers. The very first thing He says in that chapter is for all His disciples to always remember His words so that they might not stumble. Jesus knew that the world system would oppose and fight His people. So, He was and is still concerned about our spiritual stability. As true believers who stand up for Christ, we will have to keep doing so. But that stance may attract pain. John 16:33 puts it this way, “…In the world you will have tribulation…”. Constant pressure is a very depressing thing to experience. And the world’s pressure is becoming unbearable for many believers and they are caving in and blending in. Dear friend, please stand your ground. May God who is able to shield and protect us make you strong and make your face like flint. Amen. Christians are ambassadors of Christ in this world. We are everywhere but the gospel of Christ is fast taking the back seat. In the opening Scripture Jesus warns that His genuine followers will suffer in the hands of pretenders and haters. It’s the Lord’s cup. And He says to not fear what is about to happen to us even if it means death. Ha! Death? Well, dear friend, God knows there is fear, and He is comforting us right now. In spite of the fear, I have come to learn that it is safer to stand by the Lord. The other way (which is to play safe, blend in and compromise our faith because everyone is doing it, hoping that somehow God will just let things be) is not advisable path to tread. Beloved, the world system is everywhere—in the office, market place, at home, even in the church, and it hates everything that Christ Jesus represents. It will come for us—you and I. Let’s ask God for courage to stand for Him since we know that no one is permitted to stand aloof: it’s either Christ or the world. God bless you.
Posted on: Thu, 28 Nov 2013 11:11:24 +0000