Be not ashamed of Christ

2 Timothy 1:8-9KJV

Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; 9Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began

There is coming a persecution of one sort or another to Christians. Paul understood this and directed Timothy to not be ashamed. He knew that all things are ordered and ordained by God for His purpose.

We may go through bad times, we may suffer down turns, physical persecution, financial woes, societal ostracization etc.

However, we are to be not ashamed of the testimony of Christ.

We have the power of the Holy Spirit to lead us through. All we have to do is rest in the strength and power of our Heavenly Father for we know that all is of HIM.

Satan and his minions may attack us in many many ways. Through doubts, fears, physical attacks, financial loss. Of course, satan could also attack us through too much, too much money, too much comfort, to cause us to rest in our own comfort and safety.

 He could make us ineffective by nullifying our testimony, quieting our service by making us too busy in work. 

Satan knows that we can be turned aside very easily, distracted, chasing after the things of the world.

We should be using our finances and time from our earthly occupation to further our Heavenly service. Too many times we forget the eternal reward and seek after the things we see and want here in this world.

So when you think of persecution, of trials and tribulations do not only recall the beheadings, the crucifixions of the apostles to mind. Be wary of trials of too much, or the fear of complacency. Be wary that satan can devour your testimony and example by making you too busy with the worries of earth. With the complications of work and family.

When you work overly much at your job it can make you forget God and His work.

When you have family troubles, it can consume you, be wary of falling away from God due to the overwhelming attention other things demand of you.

Be not ashamed of the testimony of Christ, calling to mind daily His life, His trials, His sacrifice so that you may remember our high calling. Our purpose. To spread the gospel and the name of Christ to ALL the world.

No matter what we face, what we endure, it is of no moment. It is for Him and His glory that we are here. We are here for no purpose other than to glorify, magnify and exemplify the Lord God Almighty and His son Jesus. The one who died for us. 

Can we do any less than to die daily for Him?