Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Persecuted (08/22/24)
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TITLE: When Persecution Comes | Previous Challenge Entry
By Rhonda Barber
08/29/24 -
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Suffering is inevitable, so what do we do when it comes our way? In John 16:33 (NKJV), the Word tells us: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
Here are 10 practical suggestions for when persecution comes knocking on your door:
1 - PRAY – by far the MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CAN DO!!!
The Bible tells us to pray without ceasing. 1 Thess. 5:17 NKJV
It also says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer”. Rom. 12:12 NKJV
2 - READ/MEDITATE on GOD’S WORD – In Matthew 4, Jesus was tempted by the devil, AND HE WON – WITH THE WORD!
3 – PRAISE – Remember Paul & Silas? Give your praise to God regardless of your circumstances. Worship Him despite your problems.
4 - REST – Keep the Sabbath and get plenty of rest/sleep. We NEED rest, and we function better when we are well-rested. God rested – not because He needed it – but to show us the way.
5 - FOCUS – Fix your eyes on Jesus! 2 Cor. 4:18NKJV
When you want to get a kid’s attention, sometimes you must hold their chin and say, “look at me”.
6 - HEALTHY HABITS – Eat a healthy meal, drink plenty of water and exercise. Take care of your temple!
7 - LAUGH – Prov 17:22 NKJV
Have you heard about real verses fake laughter? A 2002 study in Psychological Reports reveals that forcing yourself to laugh (or even just to smile) can improve your mood. The human brain is not able to distinguish spontaneous laughter from self-induced; therefore, the corresponding health-related benefits are alleged to be alike.
8 - GO TO CHURCH – One of the enemy’s strategies is to isolate you – to make you feel alone. When a sheep is away from the flock, it is very vulnerable. STAY CONNECTED. I know sometimes going to church can be hard. There are so many people with so many “church hurt” stories that would surprise the socks off of many of you! Unless you’ve been one of the victims. Then you know. I have a word of advice regarding church. BE THE ONE who makes others WANT to come to church. Also – DON’T BE THE ONE who makes others NOT WANT to come to church.
9 - COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS –
Give thanks in all circumstances. 1 Thess. 5:18 NKJV
10 - PUT ON YOUR ARMOR – Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT (esp. “schemes of the devil”)
The Christian life isn’t a playground – it’s a battle ground! Suit up – show up – and be brave! Get your armor on, fight the good fight of faith!
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Succinct but loaded.
Brings to my mind that even though it is the Spirit’s strength that carries me , I do have to be available, and your advice fits the bill.
Good stuff.