Suffering for doing what is right

Matthew 5:10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven” Matthew 5:10

Have you ever been denied access or suffered for doing what is right? We live in a generation where if you decide to live right, not accept or give bribes, nor cheat or take short cuts, people, and systems will fight you.

Jesus already said something about this situation. In Matthew 5:10, Jesus taught that being persecuted for righteous living is an advantageous and fortunate place to be.

The word translated blessed is the word makarios, which means happy, to be envied or to have God’s favor. So Jesus says that count yourself fortunate when others persecute you because of your righteous life. He says you should consider it a blessing not because the experience of being persecuted is pleasant but because you have a reward of inheriting the Kingdom of God.

How do you apply this?

Make up your mind that others will persecute you no matter your righteous living. Thus, it shouldn’t surprise you when this happens.

Secondly, do not take things personally when others persecute you because of your righteous life. Make peace with them if you have the opportunity to do so, but do not harbor pain and bitterness. It may be difficult but rely on the Holy Spirit.

Finally, keep thanking God for the reward ahead of you and things will begin to turn around. Often, you begin to experience more of the in-filling of the Holy Spirit and grow in love as you thank God.

Watch the video below on this topic and be blessed. Please share with others.