Blessed are those who are persecuted
because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Christians are commanded to do the right things even when we could benefit from doing the wrong things (Psalm 15:4). But this beatitude is talking about more than that. It’s talking about being persecuted when we do the right things.
Scripture promises that “everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12).
In our present culture, doing the right thing often involves unashamedly speaking up for God's truth (Luke 9:26).
If we speak about creation, we may be mocked as "anti-intellectual." If we speak about God’s loving commands against sexual immorality, we may be called "haters." If we speak up for unborn babies, we may be labeled "anti-choice."
How do we cope with these insults and keep doing the right things?
1 Peter 2:19 says we can bear up under this mockery because we “are conscious of God.”
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Even though this is considered the final beatitude, I’ll address verses 11 and 12 in next Monday's devotion.
Bible Love Notes
Very true in deed they mock but they turn to be.judge will soon.appear
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