Chapter 1, Verse 20 “…as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.”
Paul knows that soon he will be called upon to give his defense. Paul believes (and hopes) that when that time comes, he will be able to stand forcibly for Christ. Whether released or put to death, Paul is determined to honor Christ in his testimony. He expects to be released but he is ready for the alternative. Many Christians would find that honoring Christ would bring death.
Sadly, that is still true today. Christians are hated and by default so is Christ. Satan could not defeat Christ and so he switched his attack to Christ’s people. Paul has given us the key to helping our fellow believers. Prayer and the Holy Spirit. When we hear about modern day persecutions we should join with others around the world and pray for those who are being persecuted.
Task for Today: Find a place where Christians are being persecuted and pray for them. Invite others to join you in that prayer. Encourage everyone who prays to ask the Holy Spirit to join in your prayers. He can express your concern better than you, and He knows the condition of those you pray for.
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