“I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world.”” (John 16:33 WEB)
Whoever says that you won’t any oppression or persecution in 2020 is probably speaking by their own fleshly mind—not inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Granted, the apostle Paul did experience two full years without any persecution, but most of his Christian journey was full of persecution.
“Paul stayed two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who were coming to him, preaching God’s Kingdom, and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness, without hindrance.” (Acts 28:30-31 WEB)
There may be some years of quietness where we enjoy unhindered blessed life without anything bad happening at all, but it’s un-Biblical to expect that all life long.
Jesus assured us that we will face oppression, but even when it comes, we will overcome it through faith in Him because of His victory over sin, Death, Hades, Abaddon and the Devil at the cross.
The apostle Paul, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, also assured his spiritual son Timothy that everyone who desires to live godly in Christ Jesus will face persecution.
“Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” (2 Timothy 3:12 WEB)
If this is so, then how do we reconcile this with God’s will for us to prosper in all things and be healthy even as our soul prospers through receiving His word?
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be healthy, even as your soul prospers.” (3 John 1:2 WEB)
Dear brethren, it means that even when oppression and persecution come, they will not prosper against you. The weapons are formed but they will be destroyed.
Instead, you will prosper over the enemy. You will emerge as the head and not the tail, above and not beneath.
The enemies will come united against you but they will flee in seven ways.
When you get attacked by the devil, it doesn’t mean you’re not blessed or that God isn’t on your side.
It just means that God wants you to witness how He will defeat the enemy for you and restore you with more blessings and rewards for all the suffering and pain.
Your faith will deepen and your testimony will encourage someone who needs it.
The pain is temporary and short-lived, but the blessings will be many and enduring!
So expect that oppressions and persecutions will come because you desire to live godly in Christ Jesus. However, you’ll also be ready to win and prosper over all of them.
If it happens that it’s one of those years of rest where you enjoy unhindered living like Paul’s two years in Rome, then that’s a delightful bonus.
Bring it on, 2020, our spiritual vision is clear and our eyes are fixed on the Lord Jesus who is able to save us to the uttermost in any situation!
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#2020ClearVision #JesusSaves
