Matthew 5:10

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. – Matthew 5:10

Dear Jesus,

It seems to natural to avoid being criticized at all cost. But you teach me otherwise, O Savior. When I am persecuted for thinking the right things, or saying the truth, or doing what you would have done, then I am blessed. I should expect people who have un-renewed minds to be aggravated that I am doing the right things for the right reasons. When you lead my life, I know my behavior will prick their consciences When they are not used to letting their consciences be their guide they will rebel. Give me strength Jesus, to be resilient even when those who persecute me are close friends or family. Give me the discernment to sift through their criticisms to find out what areas I need to grow in and what areas I need to celebrate. Help me see when praise is a trap and criticism a blessing. And give me your supernatural love to reach out to my critics instead of being judgmental and resentful. Without you and your indwelling Spirit, I could not do any of this. So, fill me up with your Holy Spirit so I laugh in the face of persecution.

AMEN

Pastor Donald Patterson

How we think will dictate how we live and how we live will dictate how others think.