Continue in faith

Have you ever heard the story of Rachel Joy Scott? You may have heard of the 1999 Columbine High School shooting in America. 12 students and 1 teacher were shot dead in the attack driven by hate. Hate from 2 students also at the school. Many of those killed were dedicated Christians, and the attackers knew that. Rachel herself was kind to everyone she met and had a deep commitment to God. She shared her faith with everyone she met through her words and actions, despite others making fun of her, and it eventually leading to her being targeted for her faith. We may feel that because many of us live in such free countries that this could never happen to us. But we are told in the Bible that to 'live is Christ, but to die is gain' (Philippians 1:21). As Christians, we live our lives for His glory, and so, despite persecution, we must continue in faith. 'Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, since you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.' (1 Corinthians 15:58)