Tuesday; October 29

Does it seem like Christians are being mistreated in our society?  Periodically, throughout the week, we will hear or read someone say something about how they are being “persecuted” for their beliefs.  Maybe it was a tough situation at work where they took a stand based on their beliefs and were ridiculed for it.  Others might cite a time when they weren’t chosen for an honor because they espoused a belief in God.  Some people relate stories of how various people say mean and nasty things to them because of their stated beliefs.  Sure, none of us like to be made to feel uncomfortable for our beliefs, but is this really persecution?   If we get our feelings hurt or we miss out on an opportunity does that make us a martyr?  I am sorry if this is happening to anyone, but is it time we started to return the true meaning to “suffering for the cause of Christ”?
If we were to look back throughout history we would find people who lost their lives because they professed a belief in God.  There are even some places in the world today where it is against the law to worship Jesus.  Folks, this is persecution!  Being inconvenienced for the profession of our faith in a free society isn’t persecution and if we try to claim it, we not only set ourselves up for false-victimization we also dishonor the name of legitimate martyrs.
I hope we never experience severe harassment for our beliefs.  So, for now, rather than lament our inconveniences, let’s pray for those who are undergoing persecution today and let’s honor the memories of those who truly suffered. 
         Think About It!

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