We see persecution for teaching the Good News for the first time with Peter and John. I would love to think I would respond the same way they did but I can’t say that for sure. That took some big courage.
A lot of people think when you follow Jesus all their problems will disappear. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. God didn’t promise us this, but He did promise us something. These problems are easier to face with Him. He has overcome the world.
Peter and John believed this so much that they were able to face anything and still continue to share Christ. They even faced their lives and that didn’t stop them. I don’t know about you but God has done so much for me I want to face everything the same way they did.
Acts 5:41-42 (after Peter and John have been arrested yet again, this time beaten, but then let go)… The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer dishonor for the name of Jesus. And every day, in the temple and in their homes, they continued to teach and preach this message: “The Messiah you are looking for is Jesus.”
This gives you a whole new perspective. Many of us in the United States probably will not face persecution for our beliefs but we will be mocked by others. Across the world though people are being persecuted for their beliefs. Instead of thinking you did something wrong look at it in this new perspective. “God had counted them worthy to suffer…” I am thankful he counted me worthy to suffer! There is a whole new life in that.
Warrior for Christ 