GALATIANS 4:28-29
"Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are children of promise. But, as he who was born according to the flesh then persecuted him who was born according to the Spirit, even so it is now."
From the time the Spirit began touching those who belonged to God, those who remained of the flesh became instruments of persecution against God's people. So it was with Ishmael, born of the flesh through Abraham's effort to bring about God's blessing, persecuting Isaac, the one born miraculously of the Spirit in Abraham's old age. Even to this day, we find two nations remaining in conflict with each other.
As believers, we're subject to the unexplainable persecutions of those who do not know the Spirit's touch. I'm convinced that most of those who persecute the church, at least in Western countries, are not even aware of the blatant unfairness of their actions. But we understand they've been blinded by Satan, and are now used as instruments for his glory and as people who stand against the church.
Jesus told his disciples they would have trouble in this world. Sure, that may apply to the common, every day troubles we all face in life, but I suspect Christ also had in mind the persecutions we face from people controlled by the flesh. But be reminded, our battle is not with these people, but is a battle is raging in the heavens, a battle assured to be won one day by Christ.
In the mean time, realize that when you are persecuted by those who do not know Christ, also realize that their stand is not against you, but against the Spirit living within you.
LORD JESUS
Lord, I thank you for your Spirit's presence to uphold me in the face of persecutions and to be with those who are even now losing their lives in your name. May their reward be great in your kingdom to come. Amen.
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