Jer. 20:11-12 But the Lord is with me like a mighty warrior; — so my persecutors will stumble and not prevail. They will fail and be thoroughly disgraced; — their dishonor will never be forgotten. Lord Almighty, you who examine the righteous — and probe the heart and mind,let me see your vengeance on them, for to you I have committed my cause. Read the context Persecution was about all that Jeremiah knew. He was opposed by kings, priests, and the people for speaking the truth of God's word....

Matthew 10:29-31 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Read the context Sparrows were cheap. Nobody kept track of them. But God was. The world can feel hostile toward your faith: comments from friends, a culture that makes light of what you take seriously. It's easy to wonder: am I the punchline to God too?...

Acts 7:55–60 Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. ... While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his knees and cried...