Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord, and against His anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.
Psalm 2:1-3

There is a considerable amount of rage directed against the Christians these days, those devoted ones who follow Christ. The persecution of the church will continue to increase as prophesized until the Lord returns. More Christians are being martyred today than at any other time in history. While physical persecution may not be the case in some areas of the world, many Christians still experience verbal persecution in schools and the work place by those who are vehemently opposed to anyone who believes in and serves God.
     The heathen have always raged against God’s chosen, as they raged against Christ, and His Spirit in us gives us what we need to stand spiritually, emotionally, physically and mentally just as He did.
     We have been given the Mind of Christ (I Corinthians 2:16). He has given us His position and authority in His Father. We have confidence and assurance that no matter what we are called to endure in His name, He has given us the victory in advance; He has shown us the outcome of our faith in His word. We know the story will eventually end in our favor and we will see the devil’s defeat.
     In the meantime the heathen will rage. Jesus said that mankind will give an account for every idle word that is spoken, (Matthew 12:36). Those who rant against the followers of Christ are writing their own condemnation that will be read back to them at the great judgment seat of God.
     While the heathen rage, we will still pray and love our enemies as Jesus commanded. A calm testimony of love in the face of persecution can change many hearts from rage to praise.

Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Matthew 5:43-44

copyright 2009 by H.D. Shively