The Beatitudes are considered to be Jesus’ most famous sermon. This is the eighth Beatitude and focuses us on The Kingdom of Heaven. Matthew 5:10 says, ‘Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.’ (NIV)
My heart aches when I think of so many believers around the world who are persecuted for their faith. Whether imprisoned or beaten, their lives are so invested in God’s Kingdom that they feel the persecution is worth it for an eternal reward. No doubt they have witnessed to those who persecute them and pray for them even through the pain.
Think about those today who are denied freedom and who are persecuted for their faith; they are the heroes of our modern age. Let’s raise our faith in prayer for those who are giving their lives for the growth of God’s Kingdom. God bless them.
Quote
You only know persecution when you go through it for Jesus.
Prayer
Lord, I pray for every Christian persecuted for their faith. Amen.
Action Point
To find out more about persecuted Christians around the world visit www.opendoorsuk.org
Copyright notices
(NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Use in other publications. You can use all of this devotional when including this credit. Copyright © Carl Brettle. Subscribe for free via www.faithlift.org
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