Matt 5:9-12 (NLT)
9 God blesses those who work for peace,
for they will be called the children of God.
10 God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right,
for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
11 “God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. 12 Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.
When God blesses His children, it is no small thing. God’s blessings are rich and eternal. When we receive the blessed blessing of the Almighty, we have received a ‘kings ransom’ that does not merely sustain us in difficulty or persecution, but actually grows in value and significance. All the spiritual resources of the universe are generously available in God’s blessings to us and we have much to be happy about. In the face of conflict, trial and persecution God’s blessings will not only sustain us but strengthen our days and turn our gaze to what awaits us in glory.
Pray:
Father, you know we live in a hostile world. Every day we walk through the devil’s playground where many cause strife and mock us and seek to do us ill. Yet we know that you are greater still. You have blessed us, as you blessed your Son, with everything we need to live as your child in our days. Help me work for peace and good. When persecution comes, may the direction of my life be towards your glory and may I delight in your blessings that sustains my life for your great name. Amen.