It’s no news flash that we are seeing the persecution of the church – the Bride of Christ – here in America. We have always been aware that it is happening in other parts of the world … but not here!  It has become more evident every day as this blessed country seems to be spiraling out control. Everything we hold dear is under attack. We are living in the fiery trials that Peter warned us were to be expected, And as I thought about all that is happening around us, I was reminded that the One thing that overcomes all the attacks of the enemy is the Glory of God.

1 Peter 4:12-15 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. ESV

The word used for Spirit in this verse is the same one used in Phil 1:19 (pneuma), and it means wind, life, or breath. Glory comes from the word doxa, and it means dignity, honor, praise, or worship. The Spirit of Glory, who is the Spirit of God, rests upon us and through Him our praise and worship bring glory to God. True praise and worship, coming from The Spirit through our spirit, is a sweet offering to God. You can literally take this scripture to mean that the breath of God’s worship rests on us. 

But more importantly, we need to remember when we are “insulted” (oneidizo; upbraided, defamed or taunted) for our witness of Jesus that the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Glory, the very life of Christ, lives in each and every member of His bride. And by His Life manifested in us, God is glorified. Our praise and worship in the face of persecution is the manifestation of the Spirit of Glory. Or more simply put, when people persecute us and we let the Spirit of Glory in us respond with the very breath of God … He brings Glory to the Father.

1 Peter 4:16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. ESV