Scripture to Read: Matthew 5:10–12
We end this week's devotions examining what Jesus said in Matthew 5:10–12, “Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” In the USA, persecution at this point is light, but in other areas of the world, people are still being imprisoned for being a follower of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus said that everyone who faces persecution of any kind is blessed and that God’s kingdom is heaven. Jesus also tells us that we are to rejoice when persecution comes because the prophets before us also faced persecution. God also tells us in 1 Peter 3:16–17, “and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame. 17 For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong.” So, our lives must be lived so that no matter what we might be accused of, our accusers are put to shame due to the lies they have said about us. God does not want us to be surprised at persecution but that our behavior is always above reproach.
Challenge & Application
· How have you faced persecution as a Christian, and how has God used it to grow you in your fellowship with Him?
· What are some ways you can prepare for persecution and be ready to honor our Lord through the persecution?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!