Persecution and life's hardships are inevitable for believers, but we have a survival plan by the help of Holy Spirit. Every decision that affects a believer's life is influenced by the Holy Spirit. This was a spirit led separation rather than an emotional desire or human action.
The Holy Spirit spoke to the church during a time when they were being persecuted.
When we are being persecuted in one way or another, we may also hear what God is telling us. It is up to us to pay spiritual attention in order to discern what the Holy Spirit is attempting to convey to us.
Even now, humans can still communicate with the Holy Spirit. He leads, cautions, instructs, and divides. Obedience when He speaks spares us years of regret, wasted effort, and suffering.