Paris Attacks, Persecution, Patience, and Prayer

Paris Attacks, Persecution, Patience, and Prayer

“If anyone is destined for captivity, into captivity he goes. If anyone is to be killed with a sword, with a sword he will be killed. This demands the perseverance and faith of the saints.” (Revelation 13:10, HCSB)

“This demands the perseverance of the saints, who keep God’s commands and their faith in Jesus.”” (Revelation 14:12, HCSB)

Paris Attacks

The Paris attacks indicate a pattern that will only increase until Jesus returns. In this case, the Islamic State (also known as ISIS) retaliated with terrorism in response to French attacks against ISIS in Syria. The persecution was brought against Western civilization in general, which is based upon Christianity.

Persecution 

Eventually these forms of terrorism will be focus on people of faith. Indeed, ISIS has already killed Christians throughout the Middle East through numerous attacks. What marks this incident is the multiple venues that were hit simultaneously. ISIS indicated that they wanted to strike while people were enjoying their evening.

Patience

The immediate reflex to respond to terrorism is to strike back. Take the fight back to the terrorists. Strike into the heart of the beast. That may work for governments. But God calls for His children to be patient. Vengeance is not the path to victory. Prayer is.

Prayer

Twitter and other social media outlets exploded with the hashtag:

#ParisAttacks

People recounted their experiences. They also wanted to know about the safety of their loved ones. News organizations used the hashtag to populate the Web with the newest information about the attacks. Another hashtag emerged as well:

#PrayForParis

People have been lifting up prayers all the Twitter-verse. People have used the French flag on Facebook to show solidarity with the people of Paris. This is the proper response to persecution. One can fight back, but the Christian is taught to have patience and endurance in the midst of persecution. The best way a Christian builds patience and endurance is through prayer.