"So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God," II Timothy 1:8
Sometimes we forget that being a Christian is to be an enemy of the world. Everything around us is designed to destroy belief in Christ. There is no pretty way to say it. To believe in Christ is to be a fool in the eyes of the world.
Think about it. The world teaches that Christianity as a religion is what produces bigotry and hatred of those who don't agree. Take for example what is taught about the Crusades. The Muslims are portrayed as the victims while the truth about the Jihad is left out. Why was Christianity virtually wiped out of the middle east? Because if you refused to be a Muslim, they killed you. Pretty much same deal today. Christian missionaries don't kill those who chose not to believe.
What about the whole abortion, pro-choice versus pro-life battle? People who seek to defend children in the womb are depicted by the media as narrow minded people who deny women the right to choose what to do with their own bodies. That is of course opposite of what we believe. But, the world seeks to destroy the influence of Christianity even if millions of lives our lost and destroyed.
Paul was deeply concerned for Timothy because he apparently was susceptible to outward influence. Well, I think we all at times can fall victim to the overwhelming pressure of the world. But, we are given a spirit of power and we need to tap into that power by faith and stand. We may suffer here on earth, but, we will enjoy salvation for eternity with Christ.
Father, help us to daily stand in Christ by faith. Praise be to you in us today!
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