#215 FACING PERSECUTION
Early Christians considered persecution a joyous privilege because in persecution, they saw the providence of a loving Father who did all things well, Philippians 1:29. God allowed persecution to fall on both Old and New Testament saints as a part of his discipline designed for their spiritual growth in righteousness and holiness, Hebrews 10:32-34. God has told us clearly that we must suffer persecutions as followers of Christ, John 15:20. But the Christian sees in such sufferings God's appointed means of testing faith, purifying character and developing humility and compassion. "What happens in us is much more important than what happens to us." Therefore "we glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope."(Romans 5:3-4) Peter, writing during a time of fiery persecution, declares that these trials test the genuineness or real character of our faith, I Peter 1:6-7. Though persecutions within themselves do not make heroes or cowards, they do reveal the strength or weakness of our faith just as winter reveals which trees are evergreen. Because Jesus endured temptations, the gainsaying of sinners and finally the cross, we are assured that he is compassionate and sympathetic with us, Hebrews 2:18. In like manner, persecution helps us to grow in ability to sympathize with others. Persecutions serve also to increase our dependence and trust in God because when we are most conscious of our weaknesses and needs, then his all-sufficient grace more abundantly rests upon us. II Corinthians 12:10-11. Therefore, we need to understand that the so-called "dark days of persecution" may in reality be the time when the light of faith and trust glows brightest and when holiness and mercy are most radiant. Never was the church freer, more holy, never stronger nor more extensive in its outward and inward growth than at the times when it was counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name of Christ!