I read the PresbyCan Daily devotional each morning, and I pray for the PrayerLine requests that are often for Christians in foreign lands who are facing persecution and trouble for practicing their faith. I admit to feelings of guilt at times. I'm blessed to be able to worship openly at my church and to have easy access to Bibles, Christian literature, and online sermons and teaching. Do I need to practice my faith in secret? No, but sometimes, I don't make it public, rather than suffer rejection and ridicule, or I succumb to the conviction that I would be no good at witnessing anyway.

The writer to the Hebrews encouraged having confidence in being witnesses to Christ for Christians who at the time were actually being ridiculed by non-Christians and rejected by the Jewish community.

Hebrews 10:32-35 – But recall the former days in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great struggle with sufferings: partly while you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and tribulations, and partly while you became companions of those who were so treated; for you had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods, knowing that you have a better and an enduring possession for yourselves in heaven. Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. (NKJV)

The faithful being addressed here also faced economic sanctions and the theft of their possessions. Having faced these trials and overcome them, they could reflect on endurance and have courage to face the future — a heavenly future!

Because we have a heavenly perspective, we can push through this present time of discouragement. Jesus told us that we would face opposition at any time for His sake, but commanded us to speak and defend the gospel even if it meant being rejected and ridiculed. We are called to be willing messengers for Christ, giving others the chance to accept God's gift, to repent and believe. The Holy Spirit will take care of the conviction in their hearts, if we will but obey and share our faith.

Are you shy to be known as a Christian? Do you shrink in a corner rather than face ridicule and rejection? Remember these words:

Deuteronomy 23:5b – But the Lord your God turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the Lord your God loves you. (NKJV)

Pray for those who face personal danger for their faith, with compassion, and "do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward."

Dare to be a Daniel!
Dare to stand alone!
Dare to have a purpose firm,
Dare to make it known.
       – Philip P. Bliss, 1873

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the opportunity and privilege of being ambassadors each day for Your sake. Amen.

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About the author:

Shirley Moulton <shirley_moulton@yahoo.ca>
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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