Galatians 6:12
“All who want to make a good showing in the flesh try to compel you to be circumcised, simply so that they will not be persecuted for the cross of Christ.”
No one wants to be persecuted. Paul even said, "If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men", (Romans 12:18). However, we aren't to deny Christ or the faith. There will be times when we are persecuted. It might mean we are excluded from an invitation or joked about. Things are getting intense in our society, so the consequences may get more serious.
Today's verse is referring to the judaizers. These were jews in Paul's time that encouraged believers in Jesus to adopt the law. Jesus' message was revolutionary. The law no longer had to be kept to sustain a relationship with God. The ten commandments still applied, but not as a means of salvation.
Paul says that these were trying to make a good showing in the flesh. It's as if they were trying to not upset the jewish leaders. Going against these leaders had some consequences. We saw it in the gospels. The parents of the healed blind man were real uncomfortable. When the pharisees questioned them, they said to "ask him. He is of age", (John 9:22,23). They acted this way because they were afraid of being removed from the synagogue.
There are times when we have to take a stand. Peter provided an interesting example of this. When Jesus was arrested, Peter took out his sword and attacked. Jesus said to stop. Peter was ready to fight, but that wasn't what God wanted at that time. Hours later Peter denied Christ three times. He was knocked off balance when his role was different than expected. It's as if he didn't know what he was doing until the rooster crowed. When told by Jesus that he would deny, he was certain he wouldn't. Yet, he did deny him.
We will also be in situations in which we are confused. Lord, help us to respond according to Your will. "Lead us not into temptation." When I think of confusion, I think of the devil. He seeks to twist and confuse issues. We need to follow Ephesians 6 and put on the full armor of God. Verse 13 says, "Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm."
I had a guilt attack about not sharing Christ recently. I can't say I understand it all, but I believe it was the evil one. I thought I was being disobedient, but after looking back, I don't think so. The devil wanted me off my game. Feeling guilty was an easy way to do it.
In addition to the armor, we need His strength. If we are abiding in Him, we have it. Thank You God for this wonderful relationship You've provided. Abiding peace and joy. Thank You that Your joy is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10).
Lord, help us to fear You, not man. Help us to live at peace with all, but also to share when opportunities arise. You've given us this blessed relationship and want us to pass it on. Thank You.