Suffering: Persecution, Like The Jews

The Lord has chosen Jacob to be His Own, Israel to be his treasured possession.

Psalm 135:4 (NIV)

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted…

2 Timothy 3:12 (ESV)

All Israel will be saved, as it is written: “The Deliverer will come out of Zion, And He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob…”

Romans 11:26 (NKJV)

Looking backwards on countries and cultures, historians debate persecution. Which people suffered harder… or longer?

Religious, ethnic, and political persecution has destroyed countless lives. But a strong case could be made for the Jews, who’ve endured millennia of torment: as in thousands of years and still counting.*

  • They've been conquered, tortured, enslaved, and killed.

  • They've been hunted, excluded, and cast out.

  • Invading armies controlled Israel for well over 2500 years.

But miraculously (as God predicted)...

A few decades ago, the Brits pulled out, and Israel was returned to the Jews.** From that incredible day until now, this small nation remains under attack. Its neighbors vow to annihilate it.***

At the same time, God intends to bless it.**** Which purpose do we believe will prevail? Not only will Israel continue, but it will thrive because God says it will… as will people who are persecuted on His behalf, in pursuing His purpose.

Actors, models, and talent for Christ:

Learn to see persecution with new eyes. If you're among those who’ve been targeted, guard your faith and hope. Expect to be blessed!

If you can offer help to someone hurt (often from ungodly prejudices…)

  • Focused on color, culture, or gender,

  • Religion, poverty, or handicaps,

  • Awkwardness or neural diversity,

  • Uncommon clothing or appearances,

  • Strange speech or anything unusual…

  • Stand up to the bullies in their defense!

Regarding our Father’s love for the Jews and the wondrous nation of Israel, they remain your God-appointed brethren, and Jerusalem stands as His treasure. You are predestined to unite with them.****

P.S. If you’ve not faced ANY persecution, ask God if you’ve lived a “play-it-safe” life. If so, speak up, and step out… more often– which includes calling out hypocrisy. (Remember: Most leading Jews in the days of Jesus were the ONLY group our Captain condemned.)

Suffering: Persecution, Like The Jews (Part 34)

* Short article: Jewish Persecution | Timeline of Judaism | History of AntiSemitism

* Short article: Historical Timeline of the Persecution of the Jews Throughout History

** Short timeline: Brief History of Israel and the Jewish People

*** Personal note: I believe Isreal’s war with Hamas, and its retalliation for the tragedy and massacre on October 7, 2023, is understandable– but I remain deeply troubled by the 52,000+ civilians killed and massive destruction/displacement in Gaza as of the date this devotion was written.

*** The Jews in End Time Bible Prophecy

**** What Does Paul Mean by ‘All Israel Will Be Saved’ in Romans 11:26?

NOTE: God is my Ghostwriter. If what I write is good, it’s from God! We’re ALL called to be actors (action stars) for Jesus. We’re ALL called to models of Jesus, and we ALL have gifts, talents, and callings from God–  to multiply them in the world for His glory.

P.S. NO DEVOTION, PREACHER, or SERMON… can begin to replace personal time in the Bible. I wholeheartedly and clear-headedly recommend READING THE BIBLE DAILY.


WARNING: Don’t focus on favorite verses, because out of context, they’re often misinterpreted. I plead with you to READ AT LEAST 1 BIBLE CHAPTER DAILY. How long does it take? An average of 5 to 10 minutes!

Carey Arban