Promises and Persecution - God's Promises For Our Lives

The road we walk with Jesus is narrow.

My teenage son has been pondering on this of late and we have had many discussions about it over warm cups of tea.

Christian persecution is not something of recent days.  It has always been - 

So long as people have bravely and without falter confessed the Truth of Jesus as their only Lord and Saviour, there has been oppression, opposition and abuse.  

Today, persecution for living out your Faith in Christ can look far more subtle than in the days of be-headings and crucifixions.  It can include being 'unfollowed' on social media, excluded from social interactions, disownment and estrangement from family, isolation within the workplace as well as within the school space.

As my son and I unpacked the 'the narrow road', I noticed the dawning on his face that this decision - the narrow walk with the Lord - required a level of courage that he was not confident he had.  

And not only courage - 

But a knowing that this road would - (not might!) - bring a modern day persecution that would change his entire existence.  

As I watched this realisation come forth in my son's heart and mind, I had to consciously stop myself from 'smoothing out' the harsh reality that the narrow road promises.  

In silence, I waited for his next word and witnessed God's Spirit moving among us as we spoke.

"Mum - I don't know if I can do this.  I have spent my whole life being rejected, excluded and isolated.  And now, when I finally feel free of that, you are asking me to consider a path that will surely lead me to experiencing all that again?"

His honesty and reflection astounded me.  What a remarkable young man he had become.

And my response to my dear boy was simple.  

In that moment, the purpose behind all the pain and suffering of the past 15 years became unmistakably obvious - 

"Yes.  That is exactly what I am saying - 

He has been preparing you for this - 

What mightier a warrior could there be, than the one who has already held the sword and already fought the battle?

The path is narrow, but the Promise is Mighty"

Lord, I pray for courage for all those who seek Your face; for the young people amongst us who are yearning for more of you but are faced daily with opposition and persecution.  Thank-you Jesus, for your unending strength and conviction in guiding us along the narrow path with You, Lord.

In Jesus' Name, I pray.

With Love and Blessings,

Natalie x

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