Keep Your Eyes On God During Persecution

If you are in danger because of persecution, remember the Lord and pray for your safety. These times of trials and tribulations have come upon God’s people for thousands of years now. Satan is continuing to go after the children of God and their sanctuaries/churches. If he can cause them to doubt God, while causing wicked people to destroy their meeting places, he has won the battle. But keep your head high. As churches are being burnt down, ransacked, or taken over, know that God is still with you wherever you are. These evil-doers will be punished in the next life come death and hell, lest they repent. David felt this persecution and prayed, “make their nobles like Oreb, and like Zeeb: yea, all their princes as Zebah, and as Zalmunna: Who said, Let us take to ourselves the houses of God in possession. O my God, make them like a wheel; as the stubble before the wind. As the fire burneth a wood, and as the flame setteth the mountains on fire.” (Psalm 83:11-14) The times we live in are similar to times past, and still so different.

David’s prayer continued, “so persecute them with thy tempest, and make them afraid with thy storm. Fill their faces with shame; that they may seek thy name, O Lord. Let them be confounded and troubled for ever; yea, let them be put to shame, and perish: That men may know that thou, whose name alone is Jehovah, art the most high over all the earth.” (Psalm 83:15-18) Many times people who are persecutors now become God’s people later on. Their pride has gotten the best of them and therefore they fall in their own shame. Wishing they could go back and not cause so much harm to God and His people, regrets fill their minds. Thankfully, in these tears, confessions to the Lord often come also. This is when the Lord’s mercy is on display for people who are worthy of death and hell. In this life, these people like everyone else, have a second chance to be saved. Praise God that He never gives up on us, although we do this to Him. The Lord Jesus be praised. His mercy endures forever. Amen.

Let us pray:
Oh Lord, I pray for those who are in countries where persecution is on the rise. I know that many people have lost their lives because of their faith in You. These martyrs have left spouses, children, family, and friends behind, which has caused many hardships. However, I know that they are in a much better place now. In paradise, they are now spending their time pain-free, while praying that other people on earth will remain faithful or come to faith also. You are so good to us God, although this life can be very hard and challenging. I can see why many people’s faith has been tested over time, but am grateful for people who continued to believe until death. Surely, this life is short but eternity with You is forever. Therefore, if I have to suffer before I die and go to paradise, let it happen according to Your will. As people in the church continue to suffer because of persecution, be with them. Give them peace that is beyond our understanding. I believe in You, Jesus. I love You, Lord. I give You glory and praise. Amen.