This verse from The Passion Translation talks about how God's people have been persecuted and harassed since the "very beginning." Those of us who are Christians know what it's like to be discriminated against, especially in this politically-correct climate.

The Bible tells us plainly that, "Anyone who wants to live all out for Christ is in for a lot of trouble; there's no getting around it." (2 Timothy 3:12 MSG) We are going to be called all kinds of vile names, and we will be labeled by people who detest Christ and His followers. But there's good news. As the above promise states, our enemies cannot defeat us. Why? Because the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are on our side.

Years ago, when my sons were in their teens, some nasty kids in our neighborhood began attacking our home and property, after I forbid my children to associate with them. When we had no recourse but to involve the police, we were told that we would have to catch the troublemakers red-handed. Since the moment the trouble began, I prayed and stood on Jeremiah 20:11 (NIV): "The Lord is with me like a mighty warrior; so my persecutors will stumble and not prevail." One night after a vicious attack on our home, my oldest son took off running after the leader of the gang, and he was able to apprehend the boy when he literally "stumbled" and fell. That evening, my husband, the police, and the boy's parents came to an agreement, and we have lived here in peace ever since.

Yes, there will be times when we feel as though we are facing "never-ending discrimination" because of our devotion to Christ, just as those who came before us down through the ages. But one thing is undeniably true - to our enemies' dismay - WE'RE STILL HERE!

Prayer: Lord, when people insult me, lie about me, or persecute me in any way, remind me to "rejoice and be glad, because great is [my] reward in heaven." (Matthew 5:11-12) Comfort me as only You can when I am hurting in any way. Fill me with supernatural wisdom and strength to meet and overcome all of my struggles and challenges in this life. Thank You that by Your grace and power, I will not be defeated and I will not quit!