We may have trouble comprehending the persecution faced by early believers, and some in other parts of the world today.  While we can take positive steps to stop religious persecution, the New Testament emphasis is on glorifying God in the midst of suffering by letting our faith shine brightly.

Your faith can shine if you keep a clean conscience.  2 Corinthians 4:1-2 & 1 Peter 2:19-20

Take comfort in the quality of the company you keep.  Matthew 5:12

Sharpen your spiritual sight by focusing on what God is doing.

• Focus on the inward rather than the outward. (2 Cor 4:16-18)
• Focus on the eternal rather than the temporary.  (Rom 8:18, Matt 5:10)
• Focus on the invisible rather than the visible.  (Heb 11:1)
• Focus on God’s good plan rather than people’s evil plans. (1 Pet 1:6-7)

Your faith will shine if you never stop praising God.  Hebrews 13:15 & 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18