PART 9 – PERSECUTED FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS’ SAKE
“Blessed/Happy are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.” [Matt. 5:10]
Questions: Am I willing to be persecuted/ill-treated/wronged for righteousness’ sake or do I fear persecution? What does the word “persecution” mean to me?
Persecution means suffering either by harassment, bullying, torture, discrimination, intimidation, or bad treatment of us. We fear persecution because we think we are not strong enough to handle it. But the Holy Spirit within us empowers us to suffer any form of persecution for righteousness’ sake that comes our way. Examples of persecution are when we are frightened or threatened by others, mocked for our faith or for standing up for what is right, having to deny ourselves or losing family or friends, work, even our homes for the sake of not denying Jesus.
Our Precious Heavenly Father can enable us to withstand any form of persecution we suffer, for His honour and for His glory. We are never alone! When we place our entire lives and our well-being into Christ’s hands of love and mercy, He will fight for us, protect us, and help us, even if it means we might be killed for righteousness’ sake, we will receive a great reward in heaven.
Precious Lord Jesus, thank You for James 1:2 – 4 which says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance/steadfastness finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Please help me to stand firm in your Presence and love whenever I face any persecution.
“The Bible clearly says that faithfulness and persecution often go hand and hand…The purpose behind persecution is to bring glory to God. “[Billy Graham]
Myrtle Turunen