The last few verses of Philippians 1 are fitting for our strange and dangerous times as polarization grows and persecution of Christians looms.
Philippians 1:27-30 says this.
27. Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
28. And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.
29. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;
30. Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.
Paul exhorted the Philippian church not to be afraid of their adversaries. There would be consequences though. Such a stance would provoke opponents and persecutors to view their faith and lack of fear as outrageous, inappropriate and foolish.
However, the Philippians’ lack of fear would also be evidence of their salvation. They would need to stand strong and be steadfast in their faith because they would have to deal with the inevitable suffering for the sake of Christ.
This is the model for us. Believers in Christ will soon be challenged in ways like never before. Many are already facing such difficulties.
Be aware that we cannot conjure up strong faith and courage from within ourselves. We need the Holy Spirit to work in and through us.
Second Timothy 1:7 comes to mind as the means for not being afraid.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Ask our great God for the filling of His Spirit. He will enable and empower you and me in the face of adversity.