Then just as My hand pressed down upon the early church, allowing persecution to come against her so that the Gospel Message spread into other lands, so too, shall the current Church know this spiritual tension. For the life of believers is going to become more difficult, as those who profess to be followers of My Son are met with greater opposition by those who reject His name as the Messiah.
So like My children ‘back then’ who were dispersed to the outlying regions and communities seeking shelter from the adversity, this is how it shall be for many from My fold. And as the oppression intensifies, these shall be driven out from the comfort of their church communities, those central locations used to house larger meetings. While the less discerning will take this as only another attack by the enemy (for their perception rests on a shallower plain that can’t see past the current church structure), it is actually My hand behind the scenes driving them like cattle, and guiding them out into the populations of man: those desolate places where the Good News still needs to be preached.
Therefore, when these days come forth, do not rise up in retaliation in an attempt to strike back against your oppressors, but understand that My hand is pressing down upon the Church so that the promised revival is birthed. Do not take up offense at those who actively seek to silence your voices, for these, like the enemy, are just a tool in My hand to bring about My overriding plan for this world.
So in this season of unrest, where the Church knows tribulation and vicious attacks, indeed you shall learn firsthand what it is to love your enemy, for surely before too long, the fires of hatred shall be stoked, challenging believers to actually live what they profess. And although right now it doesn’t seem likely that the Church in this nation shall suffer much adversity (since, in most states, congregations can freely gather again), do not be fooled into thinking that more intense persecution shall be avoided because you live in “America”. For while I am working right now to realign this country with My will, there are tumultuous days that lie before her people, including troubling times for the faithful who dwell upon this soil.
Then don’t think this an absurd notion just because your right to assemble has been legally supported, as due to the volatile nature of the current political and societal climate, it won’t take much for the flames of persecution to ignite into an uncontained blaze.
So when you begin to feel the exacting pressure of My hand upon you, don’t tremble with fear and then hide your light under a basket, afraid of what might happen if others learn you are a follower of Christ. By all means, boldly display your faith so that those around you see its light. For while some may face harsh treatment because they would not denounce the name of My Son, all who are Mine should be ready to offer an answer when questioned about what they believe.
Then let these days be spent in preparation for what is to come so that when this season of adversity fully unfolds, you will be ready and able to endure until its completion.
“And Saul was there, giving approval to Stephen’s death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. God-fearing men buried Stephen and mourned deeply over him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison. Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” -Acts 8:1-4