Day 158 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Chron. 23-25; John 16:16-33)
CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 ESV)
LCMS President Matthew Harrison wrote: “The 20th century was the bloodiest in Christian history with the death of tens of millions at the hands of Communist regimes. Now, we are continuously shocked by Islamic radicals persecuting and killing Christians daily in the Middle East and Africa. Meanwhile, our consciences vacillate as we sense the cultural shift in the U.S. that has produced an increasing avalanche of harassment and is likely to get much worse.”
“In this world you will have tribulation.” Jesus is warning us that life on this earth may not be peaceful. Peter warned with these words: “Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8 ESV)
Not very uplifting. But wait. Jesus has something to add: “But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for overcoming sin, death and the devil by Your death on Calvary’s cross. Help me to remember that, no matter how difficult life may get for me now, because You have overcome, I too have overcome and will live with You in eternity. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
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