Remaining Faithful in Persecution

CONSIDER THIS

On January 9, 1985, Christo Kuleczef was arrested in Bulgaria for preaching. While in prison, he didn’t stop. He immediately began to tell everyone about Jesus. After eight months, he was released and wrote: “Both prisoners and jailers asked many questions, and our ministry was more fruitful there than we could have ever expected. God was better served by our presence in prison than if we had been free.”

In the midst of persecution, God is in control and can turn our circumstances into something good.

Persecution happens. It’s part of the Christian life. Peter and John know all about it. They’re in prison and threatened by the “Supreme Court” to stop preaching. As soon as they are released, they join their friends at a prayer meeting. Surprisingly, they don’t pray: “Help! Get me out of this! Fix this! Give us favor! Give us peace!” They know God is the Sovereign One, the One in control. So they pray for opportunity and boldness to preach God’s Word. And it happens!

Our world can be brutal. We can expect persecution. It’s not a time to run away and be silent. When the world runs out of hope, it’s our time to rush in. It’s our opportunity to boldly speak His truth — His message of hope and healing. 

Perhaps you’re needing some boldness. Spend time with Jesus, hearing His voice via His Word, fully filled with Him. He is the Great Provider of courage and boldness — turning our persecution into something good. Eternally good.