9 “But be on your guard; for they will deliver you to the courts, and you will be flogged in the synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them. 10 The gospel must first be preached to all the nations. 11 When they arrest you and hand you over, do not worry beforehand about what you are to say, but say whatever is given you in that hour; for it is not you who speak, but it is the Holy Spirit. 12 Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and have them put to death. 13 You will be hated by all because of My name, but the one who endures to the end, he will be saved. ~ Mark 13:9-13 (NASB)
Why do so many of us think that our lives should be easy if we are Christians? God’s Word tells us the opposite—Jesus said we would be hated because of His name. But, joy of joy, He also said that if we endure to the end, we will be saved. Many Christians around the world are being persecuted for their faith today. May we pray for them, stand with them, and give them financial support.
Lord, help me to be willing to endure hatred and persecution for Your sake. Motivate me to pray and give for the persecuted church and my fellow Christians who are suffering around the world. In the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. Amen.
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