Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. – Matthew 5:11
This is a post I wrote for my blog, the Salt Shaker in 2015
Occasionally, I feel isolated by people I know at work, church, and even family members. I try to be intentional by not participating in conversations or other activities that displease God. Before I repented and surrendered myself to God, I was a part of all those things.
Eleven years ago, I decided to please God and walk away from sin. Many of the people I once knew have turned away from me. It's not because I am overbearing with my faith; it's because my faith in Jesus makes them uncomfortable. Jesus said that He causes variances between people who might otherwise be close and agreeable on everything (Matthew 10:35) because of His teachings vs. the world's teachings.
I've been insulted and lied on by people who I thought were close to my heart. Some of those people are in my own family. Some of those people I have helped feed and clothe. But I take it all in stride because I believe in everything I've read and heard about Jesus and His teachings. If the insults, lies, and persecution come because of my faith in God, then I know I will be blessed beyond measure.
I will continue to let His light shine and lift Him before everyone I come in contact with. Hopefully, they'll want to know more so I can share His awesomeness with someone so they can be blessed, too.
Lord. I pray for the strength of everyone who is persecuted, lied to, ridiculed, insulted, and even physically attacked. I pray you equip us to endure the current and future persecution we must endure to glorify our Father in heaven – Amen.
Credits: Photo Courtesy of Freepik.com
Comments