Will You Stand With Him?

When we think about standing with Yeshua, it’s important to remember that this isn’t just about a one-time decision. It's a daily commitment, a constant choice to follow Him, no matter where that leads. For many, standing with Yeshua has meant enduring suffering and loss. And yet, the example of those who have been martyred for their faith serves as a powerful testimony of His strength in our weakness.

The story of Asia Bibi, the Pakistani Christian, is a powerful example of a woman who stood firm in her faith even when it cost her years of her life in prison. Imagine being falsely accused, condemned to death, and knowing that you might never see your family again. But Asia’s story is one of unwavering faith. She chose to hold on to the truth of the Gospel, even when it meant facing persecution. Her strength didn’t come from herself, but from God. Even in her darkest moments, she was sustained by His grace. It’s the same grace that is available to each of us when we choose to stand with Him.

Similarly, the story of Raymond Koh shows us the kind of courage it takes to stand with Yeshua when others might choose to back down. Koh was a pastor known for his work to spread the love of Jesus in Malaysia. He was abducted in broad daylight in 2017, and to this day, no one knows his fate. His faithfulness to continue sharing the Gospel even when the dangers were real is a reminder to us all. We may not face the same circumstances as Pastor Koh, but his example challenges us to ask ourselves: are we willing to stand for Christ, even when it’s uncomfortable or risky?

In places like North Korea, standing with Yeshua is a daily, quiet act of rebellion against a totalitarian government that demands loyalty above all else. There, Christians risk imprisonment, forced labor, and even execution. Yet, despite these dangers, the underground church continues to grow. These believers are willing to live out their faith in secret, risking everything because they know that standing with Yeshua is more valuable than anything this world can offer. Their example reminds us that even when we can't openly share our faith, God is still at work, and we can still stand firm in our commitment to Him.

Then there are the Christians in Nigeria, where militant groups like Boko Haram make life incredibly dangerous for believers. They face kidnappings, killings, and church bombings on a regular basis. Yet many Christians in Nigeria continue to worship, pray, and share the Gospel despite these threats. The story of Pastor Lawan Andimi is especially powerful. When he was abducted by Boko Haram, he did not despair. Instead, he recorded a video message saying that he was at peace and had faith in God, even if he never saw his family again. His unwavering trust in God, even in the face of death, challenges us to consider how we would respond if our faith was tested in such a way. Would we, like him, remain faithful even in the most dangerous of circumstances?

These recent examples of martyrs—both known and unknown—serve as powerful reminders that standing with Yeshua requires more than just words. It requires action, conviction, and a willingness to endure hardship. And it’s not just about surviving the storm; it’s about standing firm through it, trusting that He will carry us through.

It’s easy to think that standing with Yeshua is something that only happens in extreme circumstances, but the truth is, it’s something we do every day. Whether we’re facing a difficult decision at work, dealing with a personal crisis, or just trying to live out our faith in a world that often doesn’t understand us, we are constantly given opportunities to stand with Him. And just like the martyrs of the past and present, we can take courage in knowing that standing with Him means standing with the One who has already overcome the world (John 16:33).

The encouragement we draw from these stories is that no matter what we face, we are not alone. Yeshua walked through betrayal, rejection, and unimaginable suffering. He understands the pain and the pressure we may feel in our own lives. In Hebrews 4:15, it says, "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin." When we choose to stand with Him, we are choosing to stand with someone who has already walked through the hardest trials for us. And His presence is with us in our own struggles, giving us the strength to endure.

As we think about these modern-day martyrs, we also must consider the preparation required to stand firm when the storm comes. Ephesians 6:10-13 speaks of the armor of God—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God—all of these are essential for standing strong in our faith. Just as soldiers prepare for battle, we must prepare spiritually. We prepare by staying close to Yeshua through prayer, reading Scripture, and living out our faith in daily life. The more we immerse ourselves in His Word, the stronger our foundation becomes. It’s in the quiet moments, when we choose to walk with Him daily, that we build the strength to stand when the challenges of life come our way.

Standing with Yeshua may not always look the same for everyone. It might mean something different depending on where we live, what our circumstances are, and what we face. But no matter the context, the call to stand with Him is universal. Whether it’s in the privacy of our hearts or in front of an audience, whether we’re facing a moment of personal sacrifice or standing up against injustice, we are called to remain faithful.

The martyrs of today remind us of the cost of discipleship. But they also show us that the strength to endure comes not from ourselves, but from the One who has already conquered death and the grave. When we stand with Him, we are standing with a Savior who understands, who has walked the hardest path, and who promises never to leave us. Just like those who have gone before us, we are part of a great cloud of witnesses, and we can stand firm knowing that He is with us every step of the way.

Standing for our faith in America may not often involve the same extreme dangers as it does in places where persecution is widespread, but that doesn’t mean it’s without challenges. In fact, there are many Christians in the United States who stand firm in their beliefs in the face of opposition, discrimination, and sometimes even personal cost. From standing up for what’s right in the public square to taking bold stances in personal and professional life, there are many examples of people in America choosing to stand for their faith.

One example is Barrett Prestridge, a high school football coach in Alabama, who faced pressure when he refused to stop praying with his team. Coach Prestridge had been leading students in prayer before games for many years, but in 2016, the school district received complaints from parents who felt the prayer was inappropriate. The district initially ordered him to stop leading the prayers. Despite the pressure to comply, Coach Prestridge stood firm in his faith, refusing to stop praying with his players. His bold stand for religious freedom and his refusal to back down sent a message of commitment to his faith, even in the face of opposition. His actions were backed by the support of his community, and eventually, his case became a symbol of the ongoing struggle to maintain religious freedoms in the public sphere.

Another powerful example is Jack Phillips, a Christian baker from Colorado, who gained national attention after he refused to bake a wedding cake for a same-sex couple due to his religious beliefs. In 2012, Jack was asked by a same-sex couple to create a custom wedding cake for their ceremony. Phillips declined, citing his Christian conviction that marriage is between one man and one woman. This led to a lengthy legal battle, with Jack Phillips being sued for discrimination. After multiple court cases and appeals, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in his favor in 2018, citing a violation of his First Amendment rights. Despite facing public backlash and threats to his business, Phillips stood firm in his faith and beliefs, and his case became a significant moment in the ongoing discussion of religious liberty and the right to stand for one’s faith in the workplace.

There are also many stories of individuals standing for their faith in the workplace. Barb Johnson, a public school teacher in Michigan, made headlines when she was ordered to stop sharing her Christian faith with students. She had been teaching for years, integrating her beliefs in ways that were respectful and not forceful. However, after a parent complained, the school district told her to stop talking about her faith at work. In response, Barb chose to resign, citing her commitment to her faith as more important than her job. Her story highlights the challenges many Christians face when they feel their religious expression is being restricted in public institutions, yet it also shows the deep conviction to stand firm when facing pressure to compromise.

The case of Brittany Smith, a nurse in a New Jersey hospital, illustrates another form of standing up for Christian beliefs in the workplace. In 2020, Brittany was fired from her job after she refused to participate in a training program that included promoting LGBTQ+ rights, which conflicted with her Christian values. She felt that participating in the training would require her to affirm values contrary to her faith. Brittany’s case sparked a nationwide conversation about the balance between workplace requirements and religious freedom. Her decision to stand for her faith, despite the consequences, serves as a reminder of how even everyday jobs can present challenges when our beliefs are called into question.

In the world of entertainment, we also see examples of individuals who stand for their faith publicly, despite the challenges they face in an industry that can be hostile to Christian values. Chris Pratt, an actor known for his roles in "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Jurassic World," has been very open about his Christian faith. He regularly speaks about his relationship with Jesus and his faith in interviews and on social media, despite facing ridicule from some of his peers in Hollywood. Pratt has shared openly about how his faith guides him in his personal life and career, even when that has led to negative comments or criticism. His boldness in standing firm in his belief in Christ, despite the pressure of the entertainment world, has made him a role model for many Christians, especially younger generations.

Then there is Lecrae, a Grammy Award-winning hip-hop artist who has been outspoken about his faith in Jesus Christ. While Lecrae's music has often included themes of faith, hope, and redemption, he has also faced criticism for being too "Christian" for mainstream audiences and too "mainstream" for the Christian music world. Lecrae has been clear that he will continue to create music that reflects his faith, regardless of where it places him in the industry. His willingness to stay true to his beliefs, even when it meant facing rejection from both secular and Christian communities, demonstrates the kind of conviction it takes to stand for your faith in a public space.

In the realm of politics, Senator Josh Hawley from Missouri has been another example of a Christian standing firm for his beliefs. Hawley has consistently spoken out about the importance of faith in shaping a nation’s laws and values. In 2021, he came under fire for his vocal support of the pro-life movement, which he continued to advocate for even in the face of political pressure. Hawley’s public stands on issues of faith and morality show how standing with Yeshua can influence policies and national discussions. While he’s faced significant backlash for his views, he has remained steadfast in his convictions.

These examples show us that standing for our faith in America can take many forms. Whether it’s in the workplace, the public sphere, or the entertainment industry, Christians today are still called to live out their faith boldly and without compromise. In each of these cases, standing for faith involved making difficult decisions, facing criticism, and sometimes enduring personal or professional losses. But each individual’s example serves as a powerful reminder that standing with Yeshua requires us to be bold, to choose faith over convenience, and to trust that He will provide the strength to endure, no matter the cost.

These stories also teach us that standing for our faith doesn't always mean being a martyr or facing physical danger. Sometimes, it’s simply standing firm in what we believe when it’s easier to remain silent or compromise. Each time we stand for Christ, whether in a small or significant way, we are making a statement about who we are and whom we serve. The world may push back, but just as in the examples of martyrs around the world, we can be confident that standing with Yeshua, no matter the cost, is worth it.

In Philippians 1:27, Paul encourages believers by saying, “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” This is the call for all of us, whether we face small challenges or larger trials. The way we stand for our faith reflects our commitment to Him and brings glory to God. Just like the examples we’ve seen, we are called to live out our faith every day, with courage, conviction, and trust in God’s provision and protection.

When we talk about standing for our faith and trusting in God, we can draw strength from the fact that the Bible promises God will reward and repay those who place their trust in Him. It’s easy to feel discouraged or unsure when we’re facing challenges, whether at work, in our personal lives, or in our commitment to our faith. But we can hold on to the truth that God sees our efforts and promises to act on behalf of those who trust Him.

In Hebrews 11:6, we’re reminded that "without faith it is impossible to please God," but those who earnestly seek Him will be rewarded. This verse connects with the idea that standing firm in our faith, even in the face of opposition, doesn’t go unnoticed by God. He sees our hearts, and He will reward our commitment to Him, whether it's in this life or in eternity.

Likewise, Psalm 37:5 says, "Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this." When we stand firm, just like the examples of Christians in America or even the martyrs we discussed, we are making a choice to commit our way to God. This verse assures us that when we trust in Him, He will act on our behalf, guiding us and rewarding our faithfulness.

Even in times when we feel we’re alone or when the world seems to be pushing against us, Isaiah 64:4 offers encouragement: "Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him." Our waiting and trusting in God is never in vain; He acts for those who put their trust in Him. His faithfulness is a promise that gives us the strength to stand firm, knowing that He will act on our behalf in His perfect timing.

And of course, Romans 8:28 reminds us that "in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Even when we face hardships and opposition, we can trust that God is at work, making everything work together for our good. Our trust in Him is never wasted, and His ultimate plan for us will unfold in ways that reflect His faithfulness.

These verses encourage us to keep standing for our faith, even when it seems hard. Whether we're facing small challenges in everyday life or more serious consequences for our beliefs, we know that God is always with us. He sees our commitment, and He promises to reward those who trust in Him. Just as the martyrs and modern-day Christians stand firm, we too can trust that our faith is not in vain. God will act on our behalf, repay us, and reward us for standing strong with Him.