There is something about being soft-spoken and gentle that causes some people to feel they can be mean or cruel to others. I’ve struggled with this my whole life. Not being mean but being soft-spoken.
Being easygoing, soft-spoken and meek has caused me to want to put on a tough exterior.
As a child, I can still remember someone saying to me, “I don’t like you because you’re quiet.” What they really wanted to say was they didn’t like me because I was different. The interesting thing is I still get this feedback every now and again as an adult.
During many other situations like that I laughed them off but deep down I thought something must be wrong with being shy and quiet. Try as I might, I couldn’t develop a hard exterior that I hoped would spare me from this.
Maybe you’re not like me at all, however, there may be a similar situation that you’ve gone through or are going through. A situation where your faith has been tested in the midst of persecution.
Maybe you are like me and you want to retaliate but no matter what, let God execute his vengeance.
Our verse for today tells us to rejoice and be glad whenever men do anything to hurt us. It’s not only the people that have soft dispositions that are persecuted but believers in Jesus Christ.
I once heard a preacher say if you are a believer and you don’t suffer persecution then something is wrong.
Why should we rejoice in persecution? We should because we are partaking in sufferings with Jesus. When you love someone or have a close friend no matter what they go through you stick with them when they are hurting. Even if the stance you take causes you to also suffer you stick around until they are whole again.
Because Christ loves you; happily endure some of what he endured.
Think about the early church Christians who were hunted down and slaughtered by Saul. Do you think they were happy or that they rejoiced? They probably weren’t happy but they probably would choose the same outcome if given a chance again.
Keep this thought at the forefront of your mind is: life on earth is but for a moment so endure whatever the unbeliever or believer may throw at you because this present suffering can in no way compare to the joy that’s coming.
Did you get that last part? There is no comparison. None whatsoever.
I’m so thankful that we have a hope beyond the grave, aren’t you?
Prayer for Today:
Dear God,
I’m so grateful for you dear Lord, thank you for being the perfect example for me to pattern my life after. Help me to never forget that you’ve been tempted in all manner of life as I will be. Help me to keep my focus steadfast on you no matter the seasons that may arise.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scriptures for Today:
Rejoice and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
Mattew.5:2
Matthew.5:10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness because there is the kingdom of heaven
Matt.5: 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.
Song for Today:
When you’re faced with persecution; everything that you’re facing is for his glory. You were created to give your creator glory and praise.
Quote to Remember:
Endure to the end because time will run out.
How do you respond when you are faced with persecution? Are you angry or are you happy?
What do you need to do to change your perspective on persecution? If you have a specific verse or scripture that helps you when times like these arise place it in the comments below.
Thank you for stopping by,
I love you with the love of Christ. Join me as I seek to love everyone God’s way.
Keneesha
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