We know little about persecution for our faith in Jesus, and we probably never will in America. But let’s try to imagine for a second that because of who you are, you are tagged as a threat to what’s right and accepted. Not only are things unavailable to you, but who you are is being physically threatened. This is the society that Saul helped to create. What we must realize is that the enemy—the prince of the air—controls many hearts on earth. But… he does not own them. What he means for harm God can use for good to help uncover our true identity.
In connecting with God over our true identity, persecution must become part of our lives—it is by pain and trial that we know “we can” through Jesus. As He says (in Bruce Almighty) “Triumph is born out of struggle, faith is the alchemist”.
Read Acts 8:1-3. See how even though we are surrounded by people lulled to sleep with stolen identities, God still changes the world through us.
Verse 2 talks about the “devout men” that came to burry Stephen. Devout... like him. Able to remain in the midst of persecution. This is a mark of someone living in their true identity.
Ask God for great strength in the middle of trial. Perhaps you’re in the middle of one now. If you see no persecution in your life than take this to heart: the enemy sees nothing in your life worth fighting against. Pray that God would teach you to fight… by having to fight. Embark on the adventure of struggle with God at your side.
In connecting with God over our true identity, persecution must become part of our lives—it is by pain and trial that we know “we can” through Jesus. As He says (in Bruce Almighty) “Triumph is born out of struggle, faith is the alchemist”.
Read Acts 8:1-3. See how even though we are surrounded by people lulled to sleep with stolen identities, God still changes the world through us.
Verse 2 talks about the “devout men” that came to burry Stephen. Devout... like him. Able to remain in the midst of persecution. This is a mark of someone living in their true identity.
Ask God for great strength in the middle of trial. Perhaps you’re in the middle of one now. If you see no persecution in your life than take this to heart: the enemy sees nothing in your life worth fighting against. Pray that God would teach you to fight… by having to fight. Embark on the adventure of struggle with God at your side.
Post a Comment