Enduring Persecution

1 Thessalonians 3:2-3

And we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s co-worker in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you concerning your faith, so that no one will be shaken by these persecutions. For you yourselves know that we are appointed to this.

Yes, you read that right. We are appointed for persecutions. While many are preaching a prosperity gospel today that says God wants all men to be healthy, wealthy, and happy, Paul clearly stated to the church at Thessalonica that we, as Christians, are appointed for persecutions. Because of this very fact, he sent Timothy to them to encourage them in their faith. To endure persecution, we need encouragement to continue in the faith and reject the temptation to surrender to the enemy.

If we were appointed for persecution, then God has equipped us and anointed us to withstand. We must trust Him. God is still with us through the persecution, and He is doing something we cannot yet see through it. Our call is to endure and to stay true to His word. Paul did not send Timothy to deliver them from persecution; he sent Timothy to encourage them in their faith. Our faith is what overcomes the world, and it must be bigger than our fears or our feelings. When faith is greater, God’s power moves through us.

Difficult times will come. Persecution for being a Christian and standing on the principles of God’s word are imminent, but our faith has the ability to overcome this onslaught from the enemy. We must endure and wait for God’s power to be revealed in us and for us. Hang in there, stand firm, carry on, and overcome. You are right where God has appointed you to be, and He will give you the victory through your faith.

Have a blessed day!