Philippians 1:29 NKJV

For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,

Philippians 1:29 NKJV

Paul said that it is a privilege to believe in Christ and also to suffer the persecutions that come from standing for the truth of Christ's finished work.

The persecution Jesus faced did not come from satan nor did it come from non-believers. It all comes from religious leaders who studied and treasured the Old Testament writings.

What was meant to prepare them to receive Christ through the scriptures has bound them due to their traditions by just observation.

Living in Christ transforms every observation into participation. We take part in living out Christ's finished work and not observing them.

When persecution comes, if we are not living the truth, we will give up our belief in the storms that come our way. Observation helps on the surface level but participation changes our entire being to stand against every storm that comes against the truth.

To know and believe in Jesus is a privilege and honour. We have been granted by this grace to know and to suffer persecution.

When truth is revealed, spoken and displayed, opposition will arise because those who don't want to change, those who are self-centred and prideful could not accept the truth.

We must learn to take courage when we are persecuted for standing in the finished work of Christ. Take courage when people come against us for Christ's sake.

Let us stand strong in what Christ has done and continue to liberate people in the truth of God's word.

Live in the blessings,

Ps Ambrose