How to handle persecution as a Christian 

by Bibi Babatunde-Ikotun

Many times when we think of persecution, we often think of being locked up in jail or being physically assaulted or killed. Don't get me wrong, these types of persecution are the worse types. But there are so many ways you and I face persecution and we don't even know it. A popular form of persecution in our time is being ostracized by people such as coworkers, neighbours and friends because of your faith. When you say no to ungodly things you're teased, mocked or insulted, that's persecution. Another common one is social media ridicule when you state biblical truths and preach the gospel. Let me share one of my Twitter experiences with you.

I remember a while back, I had tweeted about how unbelief is the only sin that can lead a person to hell in response to a tweet that threatened blood-washed believers with hell. If you know me, that won't pass on my watch. A lot of people came for me and it was an unending series of insults and ridicule. I might have even been called a heretic at some point. Of course, I muted the tweet for the benefit of my mental health but I will stand by the statement anytime any day because it is the gospel. 

I digressed a little, lol. Anyways, whenever we face any form of persecution, it's easy for us to fall into depression and other sad emotions may attempt to overwhelm us but scriptures have taught us how to respond.

How to respond to persecution

Rejoice

Listen, the Holy Spirit that produces Joy lives in your permanently. His joy is not influenced by external circumstances. Let God's joy burst out from within you. This will silence every Spirit of depression and sadness that tries to overwhelm you because of the situation. 

Here are some scriptures that teach us to rejoice in the face of persecution

1 Peter 4:13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 

Colossians 1:24 I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church,

Don't be shaken

Jesus went through it. The Apostles went through it. The early Christians went through it. Why do you think you'll be exempt from persecution? When it comes, you remember that you've been told to expect it. Let this knowledge of expecting it, keep you grounded in God's love and teach you how to respond in the right manner. Persecution will reach everyone living the Christian life, it's just a matter of time.

Here are some scriptures that teach us not to be shaken in the face of persecution

2 Timothy 3:12 Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

1 Thessalonians 3:3-4 that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this. 4 For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know.

Expect it

Jesus Christ, our Lord and saviour told us point blank that it will happen. We will be oblivious to never expect it in this world we live in? No

John 15:19-20 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

Glorify God

This past weekend, I saw a video that moved me to tears. Check it out.

VIDEO: Members of EYN church worship in the rubble of their demolished church on Sunday. pic.twitter.com/wKIMUwprB5

— NewsWireNGR (@NewsWireNGR) August 9, 2021

These brethren have faced persecution by the government but are still full of joy, glorifying God in sweet melodies. They are doing exactly what the verse below has instructed, give glory to God in the matter of being persecuted.

1 Peter 4:16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this [d]matter.

No matter what you face for Christ's said, I pray your hope never shakes. I hope you're reminded of God's unconditional love for you. I pray that you remember that "Peace is not the absence of trouble but the ever-abiding presence of God".

To wrap up this conversation today, I'll like to invite you to join me in prayers. You may have heard of the persecuted Christians in northern Nigeria. How they are being slaughtered, attacked and displaced by evil people.

Tomorrow Friday, August 13, 2021, I'll be leading prayers in Shambala Room about these people. As believers, we must pray for each other. All the details are in the below image. When it's time, follow the link on the image and join us as we pray. Set your alarm!!!

With love,

Bibi