12 “But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, delivering you up to synagogues and prisons, bringing you before kings and governors for my name’s sake. 13 It will turn out as a testimony for you. 14 Settle it therefore in your hearts not to meditate beforehand how to answer, 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to withstand or to contradict. 16 You will be handed over even by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends. They will cause some of you to be put to death. 17 You will be hated by all men for my name’s sake. 18 And not a hair of your head will perish. 19 By your endurance you will win your lives.”

Luke 21:12-19 - World English Bible

In the midst of the Tribulation, Jesus said, the tensions of international conflict (21:9-10) and cosmic upheavals (21:11) would become personal. Jewish Christians would face judgment before synagogue elders; family, friends and community would shun them. Disciples in general would face rejection by others in their neighborhoods; fellow citizens would drag them before magistrates for condemnation on charges of impiety, for refusing to honor the patron gods of the city. Yet, even in all this tension, the Spirit would validate them before other Christians and inspire them before their adversaries. No one could prepare for such events; only the Spirit could provide the words to silence enemies and evangelize others. Even in the face of death, the Spirit would insure the salvation of the faithful. Despite the chaos, the disciples would experience the presence and activity of the Spirit.

How do you see the Spirit work in your life, especially in times of stress?