Safety in Persecution

But you have followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, and endurance, along with the persecutions and sufferings that came to me in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. What persecutions I endured! Yet the Lord rescued me from them all. In fact, all those who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
2 Timothy 3:10‭-‬12 HCSB

Paul is writing to his protigee Timothy. He is encouraging Timothy to follow his example and we could well imagine Timothy is facing persecution. Yet it may not have been as bad as that faced by Paul. However, he rejoiced because the Lord delivered him out of them all.

In Australia we see some of our sportsmen and women facing media persecution for standing up for the truth of God's word. The same sex marriage movement demand the ability to speak and act freely about their lifestyle choice but Christians are not allowed to voice their opinions without being slandered as bigots. A bit one sided.

To the north of Australia in Indonesia churches are being targeted by Muslim extremists in a way we are grateful we don't experience. People are dying from terrorist attacks. This is persecution of the worst kind.

In Nepal Hindu extremists are marching against Christians. As yet they have not been as violent. Praise God! I am praying for Nepal and will continue to do so.

Persecution can be as simple as family turning against you and casting you out. In all persecution our God is our strength and shield. He is our refuge. Amen!