Fighting for the Gospel

As Christians, we are under constant attack. The world hates those who have the name of Christ written upon them, yet, there are few who fight back against those who seek to demean the truth, which is Jesus is Lord.
We could do a lot to show the world the light of Christ just in the way we live without even speaking a word, but it seems we're not really interested in living a life like that.
"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved — and that by God." — Philippians 1:27-28
A note from the NIV study Bible has this comment about verse 28: "Persistent opposition to the church and the gospel is a sure sign of eventual destruction, since it involves rejection of the only way of salvation. By the same token, when Christians are persecuted for their faith, this is a sign of the genuineness of their salvation."
See the words of Christ to the church of Smyrna.
"These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. I know your afflictions and your poverty — yet you are rich! I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are of the synagogue of Satan. Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death." — Revelation 2:8-11
Seeing the words of Paul and the words of Christ should convince us not to be timid when it comes to the gospel.
The time is coming folks when being a true believer in Christ will be akin to being a criminal in this country. It may not be that far away, but take heart, because as Christ said, our faith will give us the crown of life.
I cannot promise to be as brave as Paul and the other apostles, but I know the Holy Spirit will give me the strength I need when I need to proclaim his name above all names.
As Christians we are tasked with spreading the gospel, not sitting in comfortable buildings. When we grow in Christ then we can stand what the devil throws at us.
"For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have." — Philippians 1:29-30
Here are some encouraging words from Christ: "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." — Matthew 5:11-12
I encourage everybody to stay strong, and for the young Christians out there to get strong, in the Word. Only through the study of Scriptures can we counter what the World throws at us.
There is no way of knowing how tough the times we are in will get. The economy may rebound in a few months and the true church will go through a period of revival; but we may also go through a long and deep economic struggle and our ability to share the gospel and the true word of God with others will be limited.
My money is on the second one, but don't let some hard times and the laws of man keep us from spreading the Word of God.
We must choose whom we serve.
"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."