Our hearts grieve for you. Persecution from enemies is fearful and very painful. But we remember the Apostle Peter’s words, “Dear friends, do not be astonished that a trial by fire is occurring among you, as though something strange were happening to you.” 1 Peter 4:12 (NET).
No, all Christians suffer in this present evil world. Yet God has promised to reward us if we endure the trial. “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” Romans 8:17
The purpose of trials is to develop our faith and our characters. 1 Peter 1:6-7 (NKJV), “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ”.
How do Christians face fear?
With humble submission to whatever God permits. When Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane, He prayed, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup (the horrible, painful experiences He was enduring) away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” Luke 22:42 (NKJV) Once we stop trying to control the trial/situation or outcome, we can rest in God’s strength.
We have faith that God is in control; “we know all things (will) work together for our (ultimate) good”. Romans 8:28
God has promised, “‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: ‘The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” Hebrews 13:5-6 (NKJV)
It is when we are weak, that God’s power and love strengthens us. Paul wrote, “He (God) said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NKJV)
Memorize God’s promises.
Pray and recite these promises when fearful. “…He has granted to us His precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature…” 2 Peter 1:4 (ESV)
“Have faith in God.” Mark 11:22
If you need more faith, ask God to increase your faith. Then “be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
We are praying for you.
There are thousands of precious promises in the Bible that provide “how to” lessons on real joy, unbreakable peace, lasting fellowship, transformative patience, clear guidance and ever-depending trust.
Download the free PDF: "Exceeding Great and Precious Promises"
