Would You Take A Stand For God?
Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you or to Him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen or heard. After further threats, they let them go. They could not decide how to punish them, because all the people were praising God for what had happened. For the man who was miraculously healed was over forty years old. (Acts 4:18-21).
The forces of darkness, working through human authorities, have always sought to resist the work of God. The resistance normally comes in the form of threats and persecution against those who take an uncompromising stand for God.
History is replete with many who were martyred for their faith: some were thrown into the midst of wild animals; some were burnt alive; others were stoned to death and many were chained and starved in dungeons. The courage of our spiritual forefathers in taking a stand for Jesus is beyond comprehension. It could only have been done in the power of the Holy Spirit.
In recent days, attacks against Believers have intensified around the world. The lives of Believers are under constant threat. This is not surprising because Jesus did warn: “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of Me.” This is bound to continue until Jesus comes.
So how would you respond when you are threatened for your faith? Peter and John faced the same situation and they responded by taking a stand for God and testifying about Jesus!
You and I are not exempt. There might be times when we will be threatened with punishment for our faith in Jesus. Our jobs could be on the line! We could be denied basic rights.
What would be your response? Would you take a stand for Jesus or would you deny Him?
Purpose in your heart to take a stand for God! That is the mark of a true follower of Jesus!
History is replete with many who were martyred for their faith: some were thrown into the midst of wild animals; some were burnt alive; others were stoned to death and many were chained and starved in dungeons. The courage of our spiritual forefathers in taking a stand for Jesus is beyond comprehension. It could only have been done in the power of the Holy Spirit.
In recent days, attacks against Believers have intensified around the world. The lives of Believers are under constant threat. This is not surprising because Jesus did warn: “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of Me.” This is bound to continue until Jesus comes.
So how would you respond when you are threatened for your faith? Peter and John faced the same situation and they responded by taking a stand for God and testifying about Jesus!
You and I are not exempt. There might be times when we will be threatened with punishment for our faith in Jesus. Our jobs could be on the line! We could be denied basic rights.
What would be your response? Would you take a stand for Jesus or would you deny Him?
Purpose in your heart to take a stand for God! That is the mark of a true follower of Jesus!
Prayer: Father, these are days of much evil. Your children are suffering from all kinds of persecution. I ask that you give me the boldness to take a stand for you no matter what the consequences might be. Empower me to do what is right in your eyes. I ask this in Jesus’ Mighty Name. Amen.