Be Persecuted? Who Me?

As I watch the events of the world going on all around us, I am reminded of Matthew 5:10—“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Jesus made it clear that following Him had its price. There will be times when we face difficult people and circumstances because of what we believe. We might not face the severe persecutions the first-century believers faced, but with the way things are going worldwide, there is a chance we might. The world's animosity toward Christians hasn't changed. Even new believers will face difficulties. If they refuse to join their former friends in sinful activities, they might be rejected. If they work for a dishonest boss who expects them to perform duties in a sinful way, they might be fired or forced to quit their jobs. That might result in extreme financial hardship for their families. In these times, let us rely on the Lord’s strength to endure any trials that come our way and keep shining the Light of Christ in our lives.

When communism entered Ethiopia, where my family lived as missionaries, people were tortured for their faith. Babies were taken from their mothers until the mothers denied their faith in Jesus. They would not deny Him, and a few months later, their babies were given back to them. They stood on higher ground.

Do you know someone - even a missionary facing some hard things or even persecution? Would you pray for those you know that are suffering hardship for Christ’s sake?

Are you going through a time of suffering for righteousness' sake? Stand on higher ground: the Lord understands how difficult it can be. Rejoice that you are worthy of suffering for Him and that the kingdom of heaven is yours.

Isn’t it great to know that God’s grace is sufficient for everything? God’s wisdom and strength can help us face persecution with unwavering faith. It will be worth it all – when we see Jesus!

Reflective Questions

1. Do you know someone that is being persecuted or going through a difficult time because they are a believer? Take time today to pray for them. You might even reach out to them and try to encourage them.
2. Do you know any missionaries serving in countries that are not open to the Gospel? How can you be an encouragement to them?
3. Have you ever gone through a time of suffering “for righteousness’ sake?” Are you today? How does it help you to claim the promise of today’s verse?

Memory Verse

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10 (KJV)

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for protecting me through every aspect of life. Thank you that I do not have to endure the hardship that first-century Christians had to face. Thank you that I don’t have to endure the hardships that many Christians in the world today face. Help me to be more aware of those going through persecution so that I can be an encouragement to them.

Related Scriptures

Matthew 25:34; Luke 6:20-22; James 5:11; I Peter 3:14; John 15:20; Acts 8:1; II Corinthians 4:8–12