Persecution is any unjust treatment meted out to an individual on account of his or her faith in God. It could be as simple as ridicule, being made the butt of the jokes of unbelievers. Sometimes it could be a denial of rights or promotion. In extreme cases, it could be physical harassment and threats to life and the church. Sooner or later everyone who is a believer in Christ will face one form of persecution or the other, particularly if we intend to uphold God’s standard of righteousness. “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” (2 Timothy 3:12).

Persecution also provides an opportunity to witness the power of God like no other time.

As odd as this might sound, persecution has its good side. The gains that Christianity has made have always been in the context of persecution. As strange as this may seem, persecution has a purifying effect. Hardly would anyone want to suffer for an unreal or doubtful cause. When persecution comes, the phony elements are weeded out, leaving behind a company of people who are truly loyal to God. Persecution also provides an opportunity to witness the power of God like no other time. God always manifests His power in human extremities. If you are persecuted today because of your faith in Christ, watch out for the manifestation of God’s power.