Memorize: Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you” Matthew 5:12
Devotional Reading: Matthew 5:3 – 12
“The Lord compensates the faithful for every loss. That which is taken away from those who love the Lord will be returned unto them at His own time, in His own way. While it may not come at the time we desire, as a result, we are encouraged to hold our peace in time of storm. We know that every tears today, will eventually be returned a hundred fold with tears of rejoicing and praise” This is the attitude of those who truly understand the inner nature of the Christian life.
They are able to rejoice in persecution, hold their peace in time of storm because they know that life exists beyond this world. The values and character expressed in the Beatitudes are so opposite to the world’s manner of thinking. Our trials strengthen our witness and testimony, if we persevere and hold our peace; we will overcome and have the ability to encourage and comfort others, because we have been there. If people see us being strong in the midst of persecution and know that we rely on God for strength: it is a powerful witness.
Paul and Silas were examples of this in Acts 16:23-31. After being beaten and thrown into prison, they prayed and sang praises to God “and the prisoners heard them.” What a witness! Paul the apostle encountered much suffering in his work for the Lord, yet he rejoiced and persevered. As Christians, tribulation and persecution are to be expected. These trials help us become more like Christ. They help work patience in us.
They help us draw closer to God and trust Him. We need to understand that God is in control and He promises to work all things for our good. The same God who neutralised Nebuchadnezzar’s furnace of fire for the three Hebrew children is still alive today. He has promised never to leave or forsake us. All we need do therefore when persecuted, is to trust in the Lord and hold our peace.
I pray for someone reading this devotional who may be going through one persecution or the other, My God shall arise and save you in this season in Jesus name, you will come out pure as gold in Jesus name.
Prayer point: O LORD, let my loyalty and love for you remain strong even in the midst of persecution and storm.
Key Dose: Refuse to allow persecution separate you from the love of God
Pastor James Ademuyiwa
Senior Pastor (IHPCT)
