PERSECUTION

Definition:

To cause to suffer, especially for religious or political reasons; to vex, harass on basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or beliefs.

Brief Explanation:

A person who believes they are being persecuted but is in fact not can be paranoid, even paranoid schizophrenic. But a person who is truly being picked on, bullied, persecuted, harassed needs help in establishing boundaries if possible or protection if need be. Children and the elderly can both be victims of persecution, so it behooves a counselor to be on guard for such things. Just because a person says the devil is out to get them doesn’t mean they are paranoid, it could be true!

The Word of God:

Matthew 5:10-12

“Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

John 15:20

“Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.”

Romans 12:14

“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.”

2 Timothy 3:12

“Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”