Matthew 5:11-12

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. – Matthew 5:11-12

Dear Jesus,

It always feels so lonely to be disliked by someone.  You knew that feeling your entire ministry on earth.  You told us that you were not alone because your Father was with you. (John 8)  Your words here in the last beatitude help me realize that you are with me too.  When people speak against us Christians I can think, “Hey, I am good company.”  Help me keep the goal of glorifying your name in front of others instead of avoiding persecution.  When it’s time to take a stand, give me the strength to rise to my feet.  Make me a bold witness for your gospel and a beacon for truth. Help me to care less about what people think of me and care more about how much they think of you. 

AMEN

When we live for Christ, we will experience the same social challenges he did.