Mark 13:9-13
But watch out for yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in the synagogues. You will be brought before rulers and kings for My sake, for a testimony to them (Mark 13:9).

The persecution of believers is real. No country of the world is safe. Nigeria has had an increase in Christian
persecutions in the last few years that many never imagined it would happen even though we were warned.

Same story is being told around the world. The recent killings in the United States of America are related. They echo the fulfillment of the word of Christ to the believers that persecution and troubled times lie ahead. Jesus said, “But watch out for yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in the synagogues. You will be brought before rulers and kings for My sake, for a testimony to them” (Mark 13:9).

Amid all of these, Christ wants us to continue to stand for Him because grace is available to us in every season. Friend, it is going to get tougher. If you choose to remain in Christ, your faith will be tested. If you choose to stand for righteousness and not bribe your way out of any situation, you will be persecuted. Be prepared and pray.

When you begin to experience this, know that the trouble predicted by the Lord is what is happening. This would help to stabilize your faith. May the Lord strengthen our hearts with faith and love in Him. And “may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ” (2 Thessalonians 3:5). Shalom.

Your Turn

• Thank God for His word that is changing our understating and fueling us with faith and hope in Him.
• Pray for yourself to stand firm in Christ.

Hymn: Faithful One so unchanging.

Further Reading: 2 Timothy 2:1-7.