Faithfulness and Freedom

And Saul approved of their killing him [Stephen]. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison. (Acts 8:1-3)

The early believers faced persecution and death because of their beliefs. I am in Southern California and it has never been my experience to endure this level of persecution. I am amazed at the faithfulness of these early believers.

Today, there are those who are in other countries that face a very similar challenge as these early believers. Government oppression and persecution and even a shunning by their own family if they choose to believe in the Savior.

For those of us who can worship, fellowship with other believers, read our Bibles, and declare freely that we are Christ followers – wonderful! May we be diligent, faithful believers who have an uncompromising faith in the face of opposition.

For those of us who cannot worship, fellowship with other believers, read our Bibles, and declare freely that we are Christ followers – wonderful! God is with you in the midst of this oppression. However, may I say that I greatly respect your diligent faithfulness, courage, and willingness to sacrifice all for Christ. I have seen some of the oppression and persecution that happens to believers in hostile environments. I’ve not seen it all and know that I do not grasp the severity of it all. But I have much respect for those who are faithful with no compromise. Blessings to you.

I am praying.