Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
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I pray that we do not have to suffer the persecution that Christ suffered! It would be nice to think that religious persecution is over and that we have grown enough to look past religious differences. But daily there are news stories of those who are being sought and harmed due to their religion, due to their faith. Daily we are asked to pray for those who are hurting and suffering simply for leading others to salvation.
per•se•cute
to pursue with harassing or oppressive treatment, especially because of religion, race, or beliefs; harass persistently. to annoy or trouble persistently.
Persecution isn’t always what we see on TV—it isn’t always the acts of bodily harm or imprisonment. And there are times when persecution is the whispers when we are seen reading the bible; it is eyes rolled when we share those words we read. We can see it when our children are encouraged and, at times, forced to hide their beliefs in school. Persecution is an attempt by satan to discourage Christians from sharing what we know to be true. Despite this persecution we are given instructions to continue to spread the love of God.
Mark 16:15-16
And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.
Go into the world, without fear of persecution, because as He said “blessed are those who have been persecuted….” This is a promise that whatever we may encounter on this journey, He has promised us and has assured us of what awaits.
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Let’s Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, I pray for courage and strength to push through the persecution we may face, whether extreme or more subtle. Thank You for Your continued promises of Your reassurance of what is to come. I pray for those who are experiencing this extreme persecution! I pray for their strength and I know that Your hand is on their lives daily. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
