Victory: Persecuted But Not Abandoned

Thursday, May 10, 2018

We are afflicted in every way but not crushed;
we are perplexed but not in despair;
we are persecuted but not abandoned;
we are struck down but not destroyed.
II Corinthians 4:8-9

Have you ever been persecuted for your faith? Like the young man in the movie, "God's Not Dead," did a know-it-all professor challenge what you believe? Have you had an employer reprimand you for speaking about your Lord?

What about Andrew Brunson, the Christian American pastor who has been imprisoned in Turkey since October 2016? Although he is accused of being involved with a terrorist group, it is because of his faith in Jesus Christ that he has been targeted. I can't begin to imagine the conditions he has endured for nineteen months. 

Even though his next court date isn't until July 2018, I can assure you that Pastor Brunson has not been abandoned by God. Consider Deuteronomy 31:6.

Be strong and courageous.
Do not be afraid or terrified because of them,
for the LORD your God goes with you;
he will never leave you nor forsake you.

I hope that we never have to experience that type of persecution. But if we do, let me assure you that no one -- not even Satan -- can separate us from God. We are His forever and always.

Lord, no matter what persecution we face today, help us to look to you for encouragement. We claim your victory over Satan and know that you will never abandon us. You have proven it. Thank you.

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