John 7:13 ”But no one had the courage to speak favorably about him in public, for they were afraid of getting in trouble with the Jewish leaders.”
The time is coming when it will be dangerous to speak of me in public. What will you do? The world has grown hostile to me, to my Word and consequently to my followers. Keep your eyes open. Do you not see what is happening? Do you not see the days of persecution on the horizon? You are already maligned. You are already labeled as a danger. It will only worsen. What will you do? Will you stand firm in your allegiance to me, to my Father? Will you be willing to suffer for me? Are you strong enough? Do you love me enough? Are you willing to remain – no matter what happens? It will be difficult, as it has been throughout history when my children are oppressed. It will be dangerous, as it has been whenever rulers have tried to wipe out my followers. But, you are my light. You are my voice. If you do not stand, what hope is there for your fellows? How will others know how to stand? How to be disciples? How to remain in me? Now, more than ever, look up – not around. Seek me, and my help. Remain courageous – do not fear – for fear is what will vanquish you. Fear is what will turn you away from me. And your enemy does everything it can to instill fear in you and your fellows. Do not allow them any ingress. Pray without ceasing. Invite my Spirit in to dwell within you each and every day. Allow me to be your strength, your courage, your insight, your everything. I will be beside you. I will be within you. I will walk you through every step the rest of your life. Will you trust me? Will you dedicate your days to me? Or will you allow this world to corrupt your soul, to take your sight off of me, to cause you to fear and cower? The choice is yours. It will not be easy, but with me it is always possible. Choose, child. (2021)