开云体育 God in Persecution

1 Peter 4:19 (NLT?)
If you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for he will never fail you.

The Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem is a place that will make you reexamine your life and your priorities. On its grounds are trees planted in remembrance of “The Righteous Among the Nations,” non-Jews who risked their lives to help Jewish people during the Holocaust. When I have visited the museum with Jewish friends, I’ve been asked, “Why are there so few trees? Why were more people not willing to stand up for us?” Showing boldness for God and His people has challenged every generation. It is one thing to serve Him when it brings smiles and gratitude. It is another thing to serve Him when it brings anger and persecution. Peter had experienced both of those scenarios, and he was willing to keep doing the right thing and leave the outcome to God.

THINK ABOUT IT
Like Peter, we can know that if we suffer for the cause of Christ, God will be faithful to walk with us through whatever comes.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, I am justified through faith and have peace with You through my Lord Jesus Christ—through whom I have gained access by faith into this grace in which I now stand. So, I boast in the hope of Your glory. I also glory in my sufferings, because I know suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” In Jesus’ name, amen. (Adapted, Romans 5:1-4)