Take A Stand and Expect Persecution

Have you ever noticed how when someone takes a stand for something Godly, usually they're persecuted, attacked, opposed, and at times, vilified? Whether it's in politics, especially in the current GOP races, a law, a decision or even a personal conviction that opposes culture, persecution and attacks are bound to follow. I think about some of the vandalism, personal attacks and hatred towards people such as Brandi Swindell and Stanton Healthcare, as their pro-life stand opposes abortion. They take a stand for life and all of sudden they become a big target for hatred and vilification. But what's interesting to me is how Christians are surprised when attacks come, as they take a stand for Christ and the Bible. It shouldn't be any surprise to us. The Bible is clear with verses such as 2 Timothy 3:12 which states, "Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." When people become born again, they're fooled if they think their life is now going to be easy and without opposition. All we have to do is look at what happened to the disciples and Jesus Himself. He told us in John 15:18, "If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first." If people persecute or attack you, don't be discouraged by it. Don't allow their hatred and opposition hinder you from being who God's called you to be and doing what He's called you to do. Find comfort and strength in verses like 2 Corinthians 12:10 which encourages us, "That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong." If you take a stand for something Godly today, expect persecution and opposition, but don't let it hinder or stop you :)