A Martyrs Faith

Rising inflation, pain at the pumps and grocery stores, and threats of nuclear warfare, coming from the Kremlin, is a growing concern among Americans. But, concerns of a financial meltdown and national destruction through warfare, as is happening in Ukraine, will take second place to what is soon to break upon the world. It’s called “a time of trouble such as never was” (Daniel 12:1). See also Matthew 24:21, 22. At that time the lives of every Christian will be touched as demons seek to separate them from Christ.

“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12).

While Paul’s words prophetically look down to that tumultuous time of final choice making between Christ and Satan, the choices made now may determine the ultimate decision then.

“(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation)” (2 Corinthians 6:2). When given a knowledge of the gospel, Felix trembled and sent Paul away for a more convenient time (Acts 24:25), which never came.

In attempting to prevent mankind from receiving the free gift of salvation, Satan will again resort to pain, as he did during the dark ages when he inspired the cruelty of the stake, the rack, and other torture machines (Foxes Book of Martyrs).

He also has another form of persecution that he more commonly uses, one that appeals to man’s self-love and fear of rejection. Jesus explains why it should be an occasion for happiness. “blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you” (Matthew 5:10-12). Admittedly, most do not have a martyr’s faith at present, but when needed it will be given. At that time the knowledge of His love, and ever abiding presence, will take away all fear. “For he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Hebrews 13:5, 6).