Matthew 5;10-12 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Persecution comes in many forms. At its minimal level it is just snide remarks and mean comments. At its worst, persecution can mean torture and death. Whatever the level, persecution by its very nature is an unpleasant thing. No sane person enjoys persecution.
Yet persecution can be a blessing too. First off there is the eternal reward. Jesus promises that if we are persecuted because of Him then we will be rewarded in Heaven. No matter how much suffering one endures here on Earth, the reward we will receive in Heaven is going to be worth it. Bearing persecution in a manner that glorifies God is like an investment for eternity.
The second blessing is that is gives us empirical proof that we are living an effective Christian life. In most cases, persecution only comes when someone is living in a purposeful and meaningful manner for Christ. The devil hates God’s children and actively attacks them when they are advancing God’s Kingdom. Persecution shows that the devil considers you a threat.
No one wants to be persecuted. However, it will come to those who endeavor to obey God and live in a manner that exemplifies Jesus. We should not seek persecution but neither should we shrink from it either. When it comes, we should rejoice for the blessing it will bring.
Heavenly Father, give me spiritual eyes to see things as You do. Give me an understanding heart that interprets things the way they really are. Lord God, give me the strength and courage to stand firm under persecution and rejoice for the blessing that awaits.