Hearing the word “persecution” is not something we find pleasant. As faithful people of God, we might wonder: “I read and meditate on the Word of God daily, pray consistently, fast regularly, attend church services without fail, and take part in all ministries—yet why do I still face persecution in my life?” I hope you will find answers through this article, and may the LORD speak to you as you read.
Persecution is a reality faced by every true follower of God. It arises for various reasons: sometimes God allows it to teach us valuable lessons, and other times it serves to correct us. However, there is a significant reason for persecution in our lives, which we will explore in this article: it serves to guide and be a light for those who are also enduring persecution.
“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble: by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”
2 Cor. 1:4
In the verse mentioned above, Paul emphasizes that the persecution he faces in his life leads him to find comfort and strength from the LORD, enabling him to support others who are struggling. Just as Paul experienced, the Lord allows us to walk through certain dark paths—not to trouble us, but to receive His light and share that same light with those who are facing their own struggles.
Let’s look at an example from Acts 27. During Paul’s long sea journey, the ship encountered a tempestuous wind called Euroclydon. For days, neither sun nor moon appeared, and the ship was lightened; all hope was lost as Paul and his fellow travelers suffered greatly during this harrowing voyage. However, one night, the Angel of God appeared to Paul and strengthened him with comforting words. In the midst of this persecution, Paul found solace and strength from the Angel and shared hopeful words with his fellow travelers, who were facing similar struggles. Through this experience, they were encouraged and managed to eat food from the ship, regaining some physical strength.
As God used Paul as a vessel to strengthen those who are under persecution, Paul himself also endured the same trials. To become a teacher, one must first be a student; similarly, to understand the pain of others who are persecuted, God sometimes allows us to experience the fruit of persecution ourselves. Therefore, if you are facing persecution, never give up your faith. Stay strong in Christ, for nothing God allows in our lives is in vain. Keep following the footsteps of God, find strength in His Word, and overcome persecution. Be a guide to those who are suffering and let the light of Christ shine through your life and words. Let’s be living testimonies!
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Dr. I. Esther Job, India
Dr. I. Esther Job is a Ph.D. graduate from India who has authored three Tamil Christian books: 365 Vedha-Vina Vidai, Manavatiyin Alangaram, and Aathuma Aathayam. Currently, she is engaged in full-time ministry alongside her husband, Pr. J. Jackson Job Sireston. If you were blessed by this article, feel free to reach out to her at estherjeba99@gmail.com.