The erosion of religious freedoms in the United States has led Christians to express panic and near-hopelessness on social media. We’ve been spoiled, soft and irresolute. It’s time to toughen up.
“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you” (1 Peter 4:12, NKJV).
Foxe’s Book of Martyrs is a horrifying account of the persecutions in the early church. Their trials were much worse than we currently face even though ours are very real. They were told not to be surprised, so we shouldn’t be either.
“All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12; cf. Psalm 34:19).
Trials strengthen our faith, so we can rejoice (James 1:2-3). Christ warned us these days would come (John 15:18-25). What is happening is discouraging, but panic denies the faith (Hebrews 11:6).
The current calamities have been unfolding in the open for decades (Acts 26:26). We’re reaping the consequences of our sin. Why are Christians so shocked when sinners act like sinners? They’re doing exactly what Satan desires.
Voraciously devour the Scriptures and stop being spiritually naïve (1 Peter 5:8; John 8:44). If we couldn’t read the signs before, let’s awaken to be more aware. If we can’t handle such minor matters, what happens when it gets worse?
“Woe to those who are at ease in Zion” (Amos 6:1).
Don’t become permanently outraged victims. Take the initiative and be more diligent to live, teach and preach the truth. Be knowledgeable, savvy and prepared so Satan will know that we intend to fight (Ephesians 6:12-20).
God is on our side and he can’t be defeated (Psalm 139; Job 38-41). We can be fearless in his light (1 John 1:7). So giving up is not allowed (Revelation 2:10).