Passage of the Day:
Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and quite a few prominent women. 5 But other Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason’s house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd.[a] 6 But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: “These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here, 7 and Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus.” 8 When they heard this, the crowd and the city officials were thrown into turmoil. 9 Then they made Jason and the others post bond and let them go, Acts 17:4-9.
Reflection:
One of the mistakes that I have made over the years is confusing failure with persecution. As a Christian, you’re called to be faithful, not always successful. As Paul and Silas spent time explaining who Jesus was to Jews in Thessalonica, a few were persuaded. However, most of the Jews possessed mindsets similar to the Pharisees. Subsequently, jealous Jews formed a mob like modern-day agitators and protestors, creating civil unrest in Thessalonica. While one of the home church leaders faced the brunt of this spiritual persecution, Paul’s ministry team fled to a nearby town to find others open to the teaching of Jesus. Meanwhile, Jason and the spiritual leaders of Thessalonica went to jail and posted bond before being free to resume developing this church.
Prayerful Action:
You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. 23 When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another. Truly I tell you, you will not finish going through the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes, Matthew 10:22-23.
Working Out Your Salvation:
Jesus warned His 12 disciples about facing persecution for faith in the future. One of Jesus’ main points is that for followers don’t take spiritual persecution personally. Human nature places a desire within every soul to be liked, Galatians 1:10. Yet, working out your salvation involves remembering a Christian’s call to become a servant of Jesus. Persecution will test your faith by pressing perseverance. Nonetheless, when Christians grasp that the world hated Jesus first, you’ll be able to become mature and complete the next time persecution comes your way.
Song of the Day:
Although Mandisa passed away earlier this year, may today’s lyrics of Overcomer help you the next time persecution tests your ability to persevere.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 