Persecution: 1.the subjecting of a race or group of people to cruel or unfair treatment, e.g. because of their religious beliefs
Synonyms: harassment, oppression, maltreatment, pursuit, torture, discrimination, torment, tyranny, intimidation

“I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!” – Jesus, John 16:33

I’m too tired to get up for church. It’s been a long week…. I really need to sleep in. Missed my Bible reading today…I’ll catch up later. Pray? No time right now, but I’m sure God understands. I really should stop by and see my neighbor who lost his wife…just as soon as I get time. I know my co-worker is going through a difficult time and is feeling hopeless. I really should share Jesus with her……soon. That guy is so annoying! Why do I keep running into him? Maybe God wants me to help him out? But, he is such a pain, and I’m too busy.

What if saying I was a “Christian” meant I’d be mercilessly beaten?
What if being found reading my Bible meant the torture of my children?
What if going to church meant facing the end of a machine gun?
What if sharing Jesus sent me to a filthy prison cell?
What if my Christianity cost me everything, would I be willing to give my all?