Are You Avoiding Persecution?
Studying God’s Word ping
I’ve never really been persecuted for being a Christian, although I’m never afraid to admit it. Then again, I don’t scream it at the top of my lungs wherever I go. It just means I haven’t had the opportunity. If I had to choose between admitting I’m one or death, as others have done, I hope I would choose death. “Do not fear those who can kill the body and after that can do nothing else”, said Jesus.
God may give you a blessing out of corporate rejection. Three companies that I interacted with have in my opinion evidenced such attitudes to what they call “industrial chaplains”: GE, Dupont, and AVX. Plus some others. But the effect is never outright. It is generally hidden in promotion issues, bonuses, satisfying assignments, attitudes of fellow workers. The effect is far more serious for exempt professional staff and management than it is for non-exempt or wage-roll hourly employees. In the end, when push comes to shove regarding staff reduction, usually the outright known Christians take the hits, whereas those who have Christian behavior and are submissive generally can ride the waves through the hard times. We’ll see when it comes to the sheep vs goat issue. But if one is near retirement, the Lord will see one through if you can live frugally and keep on tithing.
I once asked my pastor to teach on persecution. He responded that it wouldn’t be a big draw. When persecution hit America hard, I expect a 90% falling away, just like what happened in Communist Russia.