But Also To Suffer

Philippians 1:29 "For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;"

While there are many religions that have suffered persecution, as far as I know, Christianity is the only one that makes an outright promise that suffering will come.

2 Timothy 3:12 "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution."

1 Thessalonians 3:4 "For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know."

1 Peter 3:14 "But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;"

Matthew 5:10-12 "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."

Shall suffer, should suffer, but and if ye suffer, when you are persecuted...Pete, Paul, and Jesus Himself made it clear - suffering and persecution were going to be part of the Christian's life. It is not something to run from or shun. Rather, it should be cause for rejoicing. As they say, the devil will only attack a Christian if that Christian is threatening his evil work.

When was the last time you suffered persecution? What was your response? What are you doing in your life today that is preventing you from potentially facing suffering?