FOR JESUS' SAKE

Suffering for the sake of Christ is mentioned often in the Bible. Those who defiantly reject God ... will also malign His children. 

Jesus revealed the cost of discipleship ... If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated Me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master'. If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you also. (John 15:18-20)

In the same way that the Lord was ostracized by His family and community, a believer is often dismissed by those closest to him. Your newfound commitment to God is mocked by the people who remember who you once were. You are not alone ... Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. (2 Timothy 3:12)

By closely adhering to the teachings of the Bible, we set ourselves up for rejection, loneliness, and betrayal. Often, the cruelest persecution comes from those who consider themselves spiritual but have defined God according to their own ideas ... They profess that they know God; but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. (Titus 1:16)

There are some countries today where Christians endure imprisonment, torture, and death. Those of us in free nations shudder at the news of what they go through. Paul had an eternal view on persecution... For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18)

As we approach the end of the age, suffering at the hands of godless men will be more and more common for those who belong to Christ. One day you may have to defend your faith before a hostile crowd. Be ready ... Do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange was happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed. (1 Peter 4:12-13)

Be steadfast in your resolve, pilgrim.