Why does persecution not contradict the fact that God is for us?
Persecution does not contradict God's favor because it only reaches the flesh and temporal circumstances, while what ultimately counts is eternal and spiritual. Even torture, mockings, bonds, imprisonment, famine, or loss can occur, yet God remains for His people, and He alone is to be feared regarding the soul.
Les teaches that persecution does not cancel the truth that God is for us, because the thing that really counts is the eternal and the realm of the Spirit. Persecutors may touch the flesh, afflict the body, or even imprison believers, but Jesus said not to worry about those who can hurt the body; the greater concern is He who can hurt the soul. The context cites others tortured, not accepting deliverance, so they might obtain a better resurrection, and others who faced cruel mockings, scourgings, beatings, bonds, and imprisonment. Les explains that even though the powers that be may afflict our flesh, we can still rest assured that regardless of what comes, God is for us. He also warns that famine, prison, and hardship are not impossible, and as the end time approaches these things will come faster and faster.