Persecution: Faith Seeds: Prayers and Poetry

Hebrews 11:37, “…persecuted, tormented—”.

When asked to bring forth a prophet to confirm the word of the Lord, King Ahab of Israel reluctantly acknowledged Micaiah. Then added, “but I hate him, for he never prophesies good concerning me, but always evil.”2 Chronicles 18:26

The prophet once again spoke the words the Lord gave and Ahab angrily ordered Micaiah to prison, to be fed sparingly until his safe return. To which the prophet added, “If you return in peace, the Lord has not spoken by me.” I can’t help but consider the prophet’s answer had a touch of dry irony to it, yet regardless of tone he continued to speak the truth, no matter the consequences. He fully acknowledged his own capacity for error while affirming the undeniable truth of God’s words. And he stood firm on God’s words—willing to accept dire outrage.

What a contrast to the king who kept insisting Micaiah change his words to please him and refusing to listen to truth. So set on his own desires that he willfully chose to react with persecution over honest petition for direction.

Persecution seems a little beyond our own reactions to negative feedback, but is it? How often do we accuse others of malice or envy or misunderstanding or self-serving intent when we receive negative replies? Especially when we have sought out counsel. We may not actually say the words out loud; yet internally argue to mask our refusal to accept truth.

Lord, please give us integrity of heart to choose to listen and speak Your words, instead of refusing them for self-interest.

Psalm of Worship: Psalm 111:10

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;

A good understanding have all those who do His commandments;

His praise endures forever.”

Faith Seeds: Prayers and Poetry

Reflection Questions

1.     Have you ever been tempted to give up trying to walk with integrity when no one around you cares? What word from the Lord gives you strength to hold on?

2.     Do you think there is a time or place when a person must retaliate when personally betrayed? Why and How?

3.     If you are imprisoned by false words right now, ask for trusted friends to become your prayer support as you wait for God’s direction.

Share: What ‘chains’ has God placed you in that resulted in good for others?

Faith Seeds: Prayers and Poetry

Hebrews 11: 36, “,… and even chains and imprisonment.”

Sometimes when accusations are displayed in public, onlookers cannot easily determine who may be telling the truth. A shadow of doubt may linger. But what about when a person has kept the faith and held to moral values, and spoken only truth, but is still condemned.

“And Joseph’s master took him and put him into the prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined; he remained in prison.” Genesis 39: 20.

Some commentators have thought it likely that Joseph’s master knew he was indeed innocent and that is why he was imprisoned rather than immediately killed, which was the normal penalty for the accusations against him. He had overcome the betrayal of his own brothers and now once again received an unjust punishment.

Again and again, Joseph experienced personal betrayal, but he did not resort to self-preservations tactics or stop being faithful to God. Instead he trusted God in each circumstance. To his brothers he said, “Do not be afraid, for am I in God’s place? And as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive.” Genesis 50: 19-20

Lord, please give us courage and integrity to walk in truth even if no one listens.

Psalm of Worship: Psalm 15:1-2

“O Lord, who may abide in Thy tent?

Who may dwell on Thy holy hill?

He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness,

And speaks truth in his heart.”