Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Persecuted Again…or Still?

Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous—with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of your outward conditions) are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely on My account.  Be glad and supremely joyful, for your reward in heaven is great (strong and intense), for in this same way people persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:11-12 

Revile…insult, despise, or berate. We may not feel that we are persecuted…but Christians in the United States are certainly insulted, despised, condemned or reviled for their ideals, values or holy lifestyle. Some Christians may laugh at the television shows that portray “normal” families with gay lifestyles—but they wouldn’t choose to live that lifestyle themselves. Is the laughter or even watching such a sitcom an indication of acceptance of the gay lifestyle? What would Jesus do? Would He turn His back on the gay folks, or would He invite Himself to their home? Jesus ate with sinners like Matthew the tax collector, and Mary who had been demon possessed.  

People may say false or evil things about you if you let them know that you are a Christian—but Jesus has told us… But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven. Matthew 10:33. Take your stand. Stand up for Jesus…for your Christian values.  

RSVP:  Jesus is inviting you today to be glad if you are persecuted because of Him and to take a stand for your Christian values and faith. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, I will feel happy and blessed if I am persecuted because of You. You alone are worthy of my praise. As Peter said… "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.” Acts 10:34-35 NIV. Please come along side of me and give me strength to stand secure in my Christian values and beliefs—to do what is right. Likewise help me not to inadvertently persecute or insult anyone else for their Christianity. 
© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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