And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. (Acts 9:1-2)
Saul was breathing out threatenings. He was zealous about his persecution. He was harsh and religious about it. Paul was the most dangerous persecutor because he believed his actions were proper. Saul was consumed by his hatred, which became his whole life. Saul’s hatred was not limited to Jerusalem; he sought authorization from the High Priest to extend his persecution to Damascus, showing his relentless pursuit to capture and bring Christians back to Jerusalem for legal persecution.
Persecution is not foreign to believers. Jesus promised us that persecution would happen because of our faith. Yet, amid persecution, God still has a plan. When believers follow the Holy Spirit, we can be assured that in persecution, God will give us opportunities to speak a Word in faith that changes others; God will provide us with peace amid persecution and calm in the presence of chaos.
When you suffer persecution, make sure to pray for your persecutors and make decisions based on the peace of God, not the pressure that is coming against you. Watch as God turns the persecution around to your benefit.
Practical Application
When you feel like you are being persecuted because of your faith, don’t retaliate in anger and vengeance. Purpose to pause, pray, and be led by God’s peace. Pray for those who persecute you and believe that God can use even this situation for your good.