Standing Up

What does it mean to stand up for something? I recall a song that says "If you don't stand for what you believe in, you'll fall for anything." This couldn't be closer to the truth.

Yes, there is a danger for standing up for what you believe in. The danger includes, discrimination, judgment, persecution, ridicule and even death. It is not OK to kill someone because of their beliefs...NEVER, but it has happened time and time again throughout history. It saddens me that people commit terrible acts of violence to justify their stand or cause. Sickens me, actually. But this is what we deal with...daily.

I read a friends post on Facebook this morning about not understanding the violence. She says, "How do you explain these acts of hate to your children when they ask; 'Why does God let this happen?'"?

Is there a real...REAL answer. I suppose it depends on what you believe in. Here's the answer that I have.

Jesus says in John 15:20, "Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also."

We are also warned in 2 Timothy 3:1; "But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days."

Evil is real. We are forewarned of evil's destructive powers in 2 Peter 3:3, "Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires.

Those who choose to follow THE Rabi to the best of their ability, and claim Christ as the Messiah and Savior WILL face troubling times, will be called out and be persecuted (even to death). The question is no longer what do you believe in (or not believe in), rather will you STAND for what you know is right and true.

The lines are being drawn, it's time to pick a side and stand firm. I choose to stand firm by loving others, listening and sharing God's truth rather than with hateful speech, intimidation or judging.

"Where love flows, hate cannot."

Peace & Blessings~
Jen