Persecution

Relevant Bible account(s):

• 1Ki 19:1-18​—When being persecuted, the prophet Elijah pours out his heart to Jehovah and receives encouragement and comfort

• Ac 7:9-15​—Joseph is persecuted by his brothers, but Jehovah remains loyal to him, rescues him, and uses him to rescue his family

Relevant Bible account(s):

• Ac 7:57–8:1​—Though about to die as a result of mob violence, the disciple Stephen asks God to show mercy to his persecutors, who include Saul of Tarsus

• Ac 16:22-34​—Though the apostle Paul is beaten and put in stocks, he shows kindness to his jailer, which leads the man and his entire household to become believers

Relevant Bible account(s):

• 2Ch 32:1-22​—When faced with the threat of an attack by the overwhelming forces of King Sennacherib, faithful King Hezekiah relies on Jehovah and strengthens the people; he is greatly rewarded

• Heb 12:1-3​—Persecutors seek to shame Jesus, but he despises that shame, refusing to let it discourage him in any way

Relevant Bible account(s):

• Job 1:6-22; 2:1-10​—Though he does not know that Satan is behind his terrible trials, Job refuses to turn against Jehovah, thus glorifying God and proving Satan a liar

• Da 1:6, 7; 3:8-30​—Faithful Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego) are willing to face a horrific death rather than disobey Jehovah; as a result, pagan King Nebuchadnezzar glorifies Jehovah publicly

Relevant Bible account(s):

• Ac 11:19-21​—Christians scattered by persecution continue to spread the good news far and wide

• Php 1:12, 13​—The apostle Paul is pleased that his imprisonment has actually advanced the cause of the good news