Persecution has been a part of my life ever since I became a Christian. I understand that persecution is certain in the life of a believer and follower of Jesus but it’s always painful. When I got home tonight, I asked God to speak to me through His Word. I was led to Isaiah 43 and my eyes were glued on “Fear not”. I continued reading and saw “Fear not for I am with you.”

I read chapter 44 and again encountered “Fear not”. When I read chapter 41, “Fear not” was mentioned three times. The words that were repeated many times in those three chapters are:

“Fear not, for I am with you…”
“You are My witnesses…”
“You are My servant…”
“I have chosen you…”
“I will help you.”

I had goosebumps when I read those. I know it was God speaking to me. He wants to assure me that I should not fear persecution because He is with me and that He will help me as I witness to people. I broke down after reading the second “Fear not”. I know that God is real and that He knows everything that happens in my life but I can’t help being astonished every time I experience His manifest presence.

What an honor to be chosen by the Lord of lords and King of kings to be His servant—to be His witness. Just like the apostle Paul, I am not there yet. I am only able to press on because God continues to breathe life into me and give me strength and hope.