Warrior Wednesdays- PERSECUTION: Never Be Silenced

Persecute is defined to harass or punish in a manner designed to injure, grieve, or afflict; specifically : to cause to suffer because of belief. Have you ever faced persecution or suffering because you were a christian? Paul and Barnabus experienced an extreme example of persecution in today's bible reading.

After healing a crippled man the people of Iconium idolized Paul and Barnabus calling them gods and building an alter to sacrifice unto them. "And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men."Acts 14:11 Paul and Barnabus, were celebrities in the town of Iconium from the miracle that God enabled them to perform and the messages that they preached. Unfortunately, this stardom would not last for long, in fact they went from super stars to public enemies.

Soon after the miracle, people came into the town and influenced those very people who called Paul a god to turn against him. These men must have been extremely persuasive because the people stoned Paul until they thought he had died! "And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead."Acts 14: 19  Paul however, was NOT dead he rose up left the city and continued preaching. Would you be able to continue spreading God's message after an attack on your life had been made?

Despite being attacked, Paul continued to spread God's word. The bible says that christians will face persecutions and suffer like Christ. " ...The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you." John 15: 20 Therefore, it is realistic that your life may be put into dangerous situations due to the message of God. At this time in your life do you think you could handle that? Although, we may be doing God's will we may face opposition. Think about missionaries who have gone to share the gospel and been killed.

Heidi Baker, is a missionary in Mozambique.  Her ministry includes, taking care of homeless children, well-drilling, free health clinics that service the poor and sick, feeding programs, primary and secondary schools, cottage industries and 5000 churches in Mozambique.  Although, she has done many great things for the people of Mozambique she has not gone without suffering. She has been attacked multiple times and even stabbed, but she counts it all joy for the glory of God.

 When the time comes for you to face persecution I hope you will continue to stand for Christ no matter the cost! If you feel like you would be unable to stand begin asking God for the courage to be like him. We are made FEARLESS through the power of God!

Stay Blessed and Continue Warring for Christ!
Warrior Wednesday: Brittney