Stand Strong

Acts 8:1 "On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria."

It was a rough time for the new church. People were now being killed for their beliefs and panic had set in among those who were beginners in their faith. Most of the followers went into hiding, but the apostles stayed in Jerusalem in spite of the circumstances. They would set the best example by being calm, focused, and committed to the furthering the vision of the church.

Leaders learn to withstand persecution and difficult times by not overreacting. We need to have confidence in God even through times of struggle, and not avoid tough decisions and situations. A leader can bring peace through consistent actions that reflect confidence in God's ability to work in good & bad times. You can't effectively lead people by looking back over your shoulder as you run away from conflict.