The Godly Will Be Persecuted

Today's full reading: 2 Timothy 2:22-3:17

"In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." (2 Timothy 3:12 NIV)

The passage we are focusing on today is filled with instructions for daily living: things to do and thing not to do. But, in the midst of that Paul reminds Timothy to be mindful of the persecutions he endured on his previous missionary journey and the fact that it was the Lord who rescued him.

As we spread a passion for the supremacy of Jesus Christ in all things we will must assuredly face persecution, hardship, and trouble, but take heart Christ has overcome the world (John 16:33). He will rescue us, though we must reject the notion that Christ will rescue us from all harm and pain in this world and will let us live long and happy lives. That is ridiculous! Read the Bible.

I have heard it said that sometimes God chooses to deliver us from a trial (meaning he takes it away entirely), sometimes he chooses to deliver us through a trial (meaning he is in the fire with us), and sometime he chooses to deliver us by a trial (this is our ultimate deliverance where our trial takes our very life and we are delivered from this world of suffering into God's heavenly presence for all eternity.)

Today, as an act of worship, rejoice in this Lord in the midst of persecution. "I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him." (Luke 12:4-5 NIV)