How do we prepare for persecution, suffering, and dark days that precede the End of Days? By holding on tightly to:
A Biblical Perspective: Persecution, Suffering, and Believers
First, God's Word tells us that persecution is inevitable for us as believers:
1 Thessalonians 3:2-4 "and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith,3 that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this.4 For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know." NKJV
Second, we are called to participate in the sufferings of Christ:
1 Peter 2:20-23" For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. 21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: 22 "Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth"; 23 who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously;" NKJV
Third, God's Word promises wonderful treasures for those who face persecution:
Death brings the ultimate blessing of actually being with Jesus: Philippians 1:21, 23" For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 23 For I am hard pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better." NKJV
Fourth, God always is using persecution for His purposes:
Persecution often helps us spread the gospel to other places. Acts 8:1, 4 "Now Saul was consenting to his death. At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. 4 Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word." NKJV
How God wants to use Affliction in our lives Today
Whether or not we ever face an Islamic Jihadist deadly stare, we will face cancer, heart disease, job loss, and social strife. So God wants us to use the same principles that will keep us then, to keep us NOW! In short, we need to get a grip on a Biblical Theology of Suffering. One place to find that theology of suffering is in the longest chapter of the Bible: Psalm 119.
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