Plague and Persecution
So sad to see the number of deaths worldwide continue to grow as a result of the Corona Virus Plague.
I suggest you take communion as a family remembering that Jesus died on the cross as a sacrifice for our sin. Not only did Jesus die for our sin, but our King died so we could come into the house and protection of our Heavenly Father. As a result, we should also take time to remember the Passover with our family. Remind your family that the blood Jesus over the door of your home is always enough! The death angel had no power over God’s people back in those days, nor does the enemy have any power over our homes today. Remind everyone that our faith, hope, protection, and confidence come directly through the price Jesus paid with His blood! All fear, panic, anxiety, depression and disease, must pass on by our home!
I wonder why the news does not seem to care about the estimated number of Christians martyred for their faith every year. The number fluctuates, but here are some very conservative numbers regarding deaths of persecuted Christians.
2018 – over 4000
2017 – up to 6000
2015 – up to 8000
More than 245 million Christians were victims of serious persecution in 2019. (40 million more than in 2018). Looking at the ranking of the 50 worst countries where Christians are victims of persecution, we highlight Asia (35 countries), followed by Africa (15) and Latin America (2).
How awesome is it that during this time of persecution, the body of Christ is growing ? Not only that but the church is growing in the most persecuted locations in the world, like China and Iran! Persecution is increasing in America, but compared to most places, we face little to none. Much like in football when you practice without full contact and pads, you get soft. We can’t get dull or lukewarm in our walk with and pursuit of Jesus!
The one thing we should take from the Corona Pandemic is not fear, panic, anxiety or depression, what we should take is a fire that burns like Moses’ burning bush! It burned hot and never burned out!
You do not persecute somebody unless you are scared of the truth that they carry. The only person who could cast the stone at the prostitute was Jesus, but he did not. He said go and sin no more.
Christianity is not a religion, it is a relationship with Christ.
Forgiveness and Victory is the key to unlocking gates of persecution. We could talk about the damage enemy is doing with the Corona Virus and about persecution, but I refuse to give the enemy the platform. Instead let us focus on the great things that God is doing all over the world. Focus on how much God is honoring us and protecting us. Let us focus on how many believers are coming to Christ each day. ISIS is being defeated and many sex slaves are being rescued. God is stronger than the enemy and all his armies. Forgiveness is the only weapon the enemy doesn’t know how to use. In a time that the world sees only fear and darkness, show the world love and the light!