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Written by Gloria Copeland

"But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: But out of them all the Lord delivered me" (2 Tim. 3:10-11).

Persecution comes through people...sometimes through those we love the most and are closest to. But despite what you're tempted to believe, those people are not the source of your problem.

According to Mark 4, it's the devil himself who stirs up persecution. It's one of the strategies he uses to steal the Word out of your heart.

So when persecution comes your way, don't get sidetracked by getting angry with the people involved. They aren't operating on their own, they're being driven by the devil's influence.

Use the power and authority Jesus has given you and bind that persecuting devil. Then break the power of deception over the people he has been using, and pray that they'll be free to know the truth.

Once you understand who the real enemy is, and pray accordingly, the next thing God instructs you to do is to continue in your well-doing. "For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men" (1 Peter 2:15).

You're not called to argue. You're not called to defend your position or your name when men speak evil about you. Just leave all that in the hands of the Lord and continue doing what God has called you to do.

That's what Jesus did. He didn't quit. When He was reviled, He reviled not. He just kept right on preaching the gospel, healing the sick and delivering all who were oppressed of the devil. He just kept right on walking in victory!

I know it's tough to be quiet in times of persecution, but you can do it if you're confident that God will ultimately deliver you. That's why Paul was able to live so triumphantly. In 2 Timothy 3:11, he said God delivered him from all of his persecutions!

Glory to God, we're not in this alone! When we're in the midst of persecution, God is right there with us. So rely upon Him. Spend time in prayer. Listen to what He says. Obey His instructions when it seems like all of hell has broken loose upon you. He'll deliver you out of those persecutions - not just once in a while, but every time!

Speak the Word: The Lord delivers me out of all my persecutions. (2 Tim. 3:11)

For Further Study: Matthew 5:10-16

Daily Scripture Reading: 2 Samuel 22-23; 2 Corinthians 10

Excerpt permission granted by
Eagle Mountain International Church, Inc.
aka:  Kenneth Copeland Ministries