Acts 14:1-3 (KJV) - "And it came to pass in Iconium, that they (Paul and Barnabas) went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.  But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.  Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands."

I love these verses.  Paul and Barnabas went to Iconium and preached to the Jews there, and many got saved, along with Gentiles.  But as soon as persecution showed up what did they do?  Did they run for the hills?  No!  In fact they did the opposite!  They ramped up their preaching, waxing bolder and bolder, even hauling out the signs and miracles.  And the more they were persecuted, the more these grew.  They didn't run when the persecution came.  They grew stronger and bolder in Christ!

Now, shouldn't we do the same?  Sadly we're more prone to run than fight for the Gospel.  But fight is exactly what Paul and Barnabas did.  Should we do no less?  Think about that the next time your persecuted.  Will you run and hide, or will you stand up bolder and stronger for God despite the risks, despite the possible sacrifices, and despite the threats that are waged against you?  If you stand boldly for Christ in the face of persecution, Jesus will in turn bless you for your stand. :)

Luke 9:26 (KJV) - "For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels."