"Therefore, brothers, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord."

    Persecution comes because of faith, but faith in Jesus makes it all worth it. We have faith that Jesus came to save, to love, and to redeem. We have faith that there is more to life than just the here and now; more than just the physical realm of space and time. We believe that God created it all and that Christ stands at the center of it all. Our faith in Christ is in extreme opposition to the enemy and one day most likely we will face persecution. It could come in the form of ridicule, torture, or even death. Whatever the cost we must stand firm in the Lord, hold to His Word, and cling to the Holy Spirit. We will endure and because of our faith we will reign with Christ.