It seems like all around us battles are raging. Some on foreign fields, some in our own streets, and some in our bodies and minds. James tells us to count it all joy when we find ourselves facing these trials. He says they will generate patience that in turn will create a complete and wise individual (James 1:2-6).

Just this weekend our country was shocked by the horrific scene that streamed out of a church of Christ worship service in Texas. How can our “take away” attitude be “all joy”?

The West Freeway Church of Christ sits on a busy thoroughfare, just off a major highway. As such they often find themselves caring for the downtrodden of society. Now, the very person they had RESCUED, turns around and PERSECUTES them. Satan’s end game is to turn an entire church into a fear driven community with a VICTIM mentality.

However, Jesus says that when persecution happens, we are not to count ourselves as victims.

Matthew 5:10–12 (ESV) — 10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Friend, the current form of persecution has been revealed. And the good news is that we are not victims – we are blessed.

Father God, please help members of West Freeway to get through the trauma. Strengthen them. Help all your children to focus on: faith instead of fear; on hope instead of guilt; and on love instead of anger.
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*Insight from ABC news