It’s a military axiom: When you’re taking flak, you know you’re close to or over your target.
Planes would be sent to take out the enemy. When they started getting close to their intended target, the enemy would start shooting and the shells would explode around them, or flak. The enemy wanted to take them out before they could do damage.
Paul tells Timothy, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” Not might be, will be. The enemy doesn’t want you to do any damage, like people seeing Jesus in you and wanting a relationship with Him.
Feeling defeated? You’re already victorious, so keep moving toward Jesus. Going through a rough patch in the road? Give thanks and keep walking. Yes, it’s unpleasant at the moment, but something and/or someone pleasant is just up ahead.