DAILY TEXT, Friday, June 19, 2026. They were publicly exposed to both insults and persecution (Heb. 10:33).

Let us examine the Scriptures every day 2026

Friday, June 19, 2026

They were publicly exposed to both insults and persecution (Heb. 10:33).

The apostle Paul knew very well what it took to endure. That is why he reminded Christians that they should not rely on themselves, but rather on Jehovah. He himself courageously said: “Jehovah is my helper. I will not be afraid.” (Heb. 13:6)

Today, some of our brothers and sisters are enduring persecution. We can show our love and support for them by praying for them and, in some cases, by taking practical steps for them. The Bible states plainly: “All those desiring to live with devotion to God in union with Christ Jesus will also be persecuted.” (2 Tim. 3:12) This means that we all need to prepare for difficult times. We must trust completely in Jehovah and be confident that he will help us endure whatever comes. He will give his faithful servants relief in due course. (2 Thess. 1:7, 8) w24.09 13 pars. 17, 18

How does the Letter to the Hebrews help us to see persecution from the right perspective? (Hebrews 12:7).

What would help those Christians endure persecution? Paul knew they needed to view trials from the right perspective. So he explained that God may allow someone to go through difficulties to help them become a better Christian (read Hebrews 12:7). They should see these trials as part of a training process that would help them cultivate and refine essential qualities. They would find it easier to endure trials if they focused on how they would grow much as Christians (Heb. 12:11).

What did Paul know about enduring persecution?

Paul encouraged those Christians to endure and not give up. And his words carried weight. Why? For one thing, he had persecuted Christians in the past, so he knew very well what they were facing. For another, he had experience enduring persecution, because after becoming a Christian he had been attacked in many ways (2 Cor. 11:23-25). Paul knew exactly what it took to endure. That is why he reminded them that they should not rely on themselves, but rather on Jehovah. He himself courageously said: “Jehovah is my helper. I will not be afraid” (Heb. 13:6).

What can we do to prepare for the great tribulation? (See also the image.)

The letter Paul wrote to the Hebrews must have greatly helped them prepare for what lay ahead. Paul encouraged them to increase their knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures. In this way, they would be ready to identify and reject teachings that could weaken their faith. He also told them to strengthen their faith so that they would obey without hesitation the instructions of Jesus and those leading the congregation. And he showed them that it would be easier for them to endure if they viewed the trials from the right perspective—as opportunities given to them by their loving Father to grow as Christians. If we too apply this inspired counsel, we will be able to endure faithfully to the end. (Heb. 3:14)

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