The world-wide Christian community has been grieving the killing of our brothers and sisters in Syria. Many predicted that the new leadership would commit this barbaric ethnic cleansing of entire families and villages, and it has happened. Yet, the mainstream news is silent. The death of believers is not a loss in their eyes. But it is to God!
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven” (Matthew 5:10). The pain of this life and the cost of their loyalty to God, will be exchanged for eternity in Heaven with Him! Their eyes were on the Prize and they kept the faith and now they are Home safe forevermore.
As Believers, Scripture tells us we will all face persecution to some degree… “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus WILL be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). Are our hearts and minds prepared for it? We have to expect it and recognize that our war is a spiritual one where “Principalities and evil powers in high places” hate our love for God and His righteousness.
Don’t think that persecution is only in the far away countries, but it’s in families, marriages, between friends, in schools and businesses, sadly, even in churches and mission fields. Satan will see to it that you are punished for your loyalty to God and your love for Truth. “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and say all kinds of evil against you because of Me” (Matthew 5:11).
But listen to his exhortation… “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 5:12). May we see past the temporary to the eternal where evil and violence will be no more. God promises that “Nothing and no one will be hurt in all His Holy city” (Isaiah 11:9). What a joy to know we are almost Home!
(Devotional by Cheryl Hall-Laos)
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