Matthew 5:11-12
“Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
I receive many e-mails requesting prayer for the unfair treatment people receive. In a way, it is difficult or even impossible to resolve the issues they face. On the other hand, it is easy to give godly counsel: Always seek God’s answer in His Word and then put it into action.
The above verses close the section which we commonly call the “Beatitudes.” It is perhaps the most difficult one to make a part of our life. It is easier for us to try to gain support from friends and family on how we can make the “bad guys” stop being mean to us. Wrong direction!
As we read the two verses of today’s Scripture, we immediately see that being treated harshly by others is not a bad thing, but a good thing. In fact we are told by the Lord: “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad.” Are you kidding?
The vital thing is to examine our actions. Are we truly being persecuted for following Christ’s example, or are we at fault?
Jesus gives us a reason for rejoicing. He reminds us that His own special people (the prophets) were persecuted. Many even paid for their faith with their own blood. At this point it seems logical to conclude that it is in the darkest time of trials and persecution that people will see Jesus in us. Remember how horribly He was treated, yet He always responded with love. I want to live that way!
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil
360-570-0074
PastorCecil@Daily-E-Votional.com
P.S. – You can find previous E-Votionals covering a variety of Scriptures and topics to help you in your walk with the Lord at www.Daily-E-Votional.com.
P.P.S. – I have completed my first book, 100 of Pastor Cecil’s Select Illustrations. The cost is $12.95 plus shipping. You can now order it online by going to https://dailyevotional.com/prior2020/book-by-pastor-cecil . . . You may want to consider this book as a thoughtful gift idea for those who do not have Internet access or as helpful sermon illustrations for your Pastor.
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