Serve God Loyally Despite "Many Tribulations" - FRONTAL ATTACKS

Jesus foretold: "People will hand you over to local courts, and you will be beaten in synagogues and be put on the stand before governors and kings." (Mark 13:9)  As those words indicate, some Christians will face tribulation in the form of physical persecution, perhaps at the instigation of religious or political leaders. (Acts 5:27, 28)  Again, consider Paul's example.  Did  he cower at the thought of being subjected to such persecution? Not at all! - Read ACTS 20:22, 23.

Paul bravely stood up to Satan's frontal attacks and stated:  "I do not consider my own life of any importance to me, if only I  may finish my course  and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus to bear thorough witness to the good news of the undeserved kindness of God." (Acts 20:24)  Clearly Paul did not feel intimidated by the prospect of persecution. On the contrary, he was determined to endure, come what may.  His primary concern was to "bear thorough witness" despite any tribulation.

Today, many of our brothers and sisters have shown similar determination.  For example, in one country some Witnesses have endured almost 20 years of imprisonment because of maintaining their neutrality. Their case was never brought to trial, for that land had no provision for conscientious objectors. While in prison, they were denied visits even from family members. and some prisoners were beaten and subjected to various forms of torture.

Our brothers elsewhere endure tribulations that arise suddenly.  Should that happen to  you, do not give in to fear.  Think of Joseph. He was sold into slavery, but Jehovah "rescued him our of all his tribulations." (Acts 7:9, 10) Jehovah can do the same for  you.  Never forget that "Jehovah knows how to rescue people  of godly devotion  out of trial." (2 Peter 2:9)  Will you continue to  trust in Jehovah, knowing that he can deliver you from this wicked system of things and allow you to enjoy everlasting life under the rule of his Kingdom? You have every reason to do so to face up to persecution courageously, - 1 PETER 5:8, 9.

Next time: Serve God Loyally Despite "Many Tribulations" - SUBTLE ATTACKS

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