Love God Greatly: BeatitudesSample

God does not promise that we will have a more comfortable or better life on earth as believers. In fact, He promises that we will face difficulty, suffering, and opposition from the world. Jesus faced nothing less during His time on earth—He understands what we experience and chose to take it on Himself. Jesus came to bring salvation, reconciliation, and redemption of the whole world, and He faced opposition at every turn. 

It is not merely our beliefs that provoke hatred from the world but living godly lives. Living the way Jesus prescribes will lead us to face difficulties. But just as the living out the beatitudes will cause persecution, they are also the righteous way to respond to persecution. In the face of mistreatment and suffering, we are called to lay down our power for others, show mercy over and over again, and seek peace in our communities. When we are hated, we have no right to respond with hate but a gospel obligation to respond with love. 

Thank You, God, for enduring persecution and suffering for my sake. Give me the courage to show mercy to those who hurt me and love to those who hate me.