John 16:33

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

Jesus told his disciples that they would be going through rough times. They would be tried and persecuted. Following him would cost them their lives. He also promised them a Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who would guide and teach them. The Spirit would take them through the persecution, and their amazing peace would draw many to Christ.

At any point in time, somewhere throughout the world, someone is experiencing the same severe treatment and facing the same death as the disciples. But the great majority of us Christians will face nothing more than personal rejection by friends and family for our faith. Yet we struggle with having real peace.

Read more »

I don’t know Shane Idleman, and I haven’t read his book. I have read the Bible — a lot. But I have trouble seeing this as a 100% Christian nation. Israel is one nation, because they’re all on the same page. But America is a melting pot. Her citizens are encouraged to practice their religions freely. We have a plethora of guide books: from the Bible to the Koran; from the Torah to the Book of Mormon. Even within the Christian community there are more than enough Bible translations and study editions. However, Mr. Idleman hits a nerve when he says that who we are in our personal lives will reflect who we are as a nation. God’s word, in its purest form, already beats in the heart of the creature made in his image. We’re so busy trying to prove that we’re right about everything, that we fail to see the immediate task before us, to promote peace and love among our fellow humans. The question I have to ask myself is, “Did God make me, or am I making him in my image?”
Article
Shane Idleman