Devotions: The Blessings of Insult

Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Matthew 5:11-12 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

As opposed to yesterday, these verses speak specifically about persecutions and insults that are incurred because of our faith. Even if we never face physical persecution, I’m sure we have all had some one mock our faith, make fun of us or put us down because of what we believe. I have even had Christians tell me that I was too zealous, that I should be more worldly. But the Bible says we are blessed if that happens, and that we should even rejoice because of it. Why should we be glad? Because our reward is in heaven and it will be great, because we are counted with the prophets and those who were also persecuted for the faith. Can you imagine being placed in a hall of fame with the Apostles, Martin Luther or Charles Spurgeon?! If we withstand insults and persecution for our faith that is what will happen. Maybe there won’t be an actual hall of fame because the only One worthy is Jesus, but we will be counted with them. The key here, similar to yesterday, is how we respond to that persecution. If we retaliate with hateful words, or react in an ungodly way, can we expect any reward? Shouldn’t we expect to be put down and cursed if we act in a way contrary to our faith? We must respond (not react) with love and kindness. We must reflect Christ in all we do. We must expect to be mistreated because of our faith, because that is what happened to Jesus, the Apostles and the Prophets (to name a few). The world hates to hear of God because He convicts them of their sinful ways which they do not want to give up. So rather then be upset, discouraged, or angered by the way you are treated, take heart. You are counted with the saints and your reward for what you endure for the sake of Christ will be great! Our reward is in heaven, keep that in mind, stay the course, and be blessed!