Matthew 10:22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. (KJV)

Do you have good cheer and peace?

Do you sometimes feel you would get a fair shake from the world if you were not a Christian? Do you think because you are a Christian, non-Christians treat you with disregard, hold to a higher standard, or push to your limit? It is important to make sure, if you feel mistreated, it is because of the stance you have taken with the Father and not because of anything else. If it is because of God, there are blessings in store for you.

Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness—the kingdom of heaven is theirs. 11 And blessed are you, blessed are all of you, when people persecute you or denigrate you or despise you or tell lies about you on My account. 12 But when this happens, rejoice. Be glad. Remember that God’s prophets have been persecuted in the past. And know that in heaven, you have a great reward. (TVT)

However, it is important to know whether you are being persecuted or prosecuted. Please look at how you are living and how you treat others. Make sure you are not reaping what you have sown with your attitude and actions. Whether your assessment of your situation is from a single person’s perspective; you are being persecuted for righteousness’ sake; or prosecuted for your own actions; always remember what the Bible says.

James 4:14 This life is but a vapor and full of trouble. (KJV)

John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (KJV)

Either way, as a child of God, you must endure hardship as a good soldier.

Please agree with me as I pray. Then ask the Lord what your prayer should be and wait for His response:

Father, Your word says the race is not given to the swift, nor to the strong; You give it to the one who endures until the end. I am very grateful to You for helping me understand everybody will not like me and everyone will not treat me with respect. Thank You for helping me distinguish between those who justify their actions because of something I did or said, and those who actions are motivated, simply because I name the name of Christ and live like it. I repent for buckling under the feelings of rejection. Thank You for teaching me to expect to be rejected because I choose to do what glorifies You instead of going along with the crowd. Father, thank You for reminding me when I choose You, I will often find myself on the outside more times than on the inside. Father, I come to You, right now, thanking You in advance for giving me what I need to trust and believe You will be my endurance. Because of You, I won’t give up and I won’t back down. The life I live will continue to speak of You. You are the Almighty God and I serve You. I will continue to seek You for the strength I need to stand. Your word says You started a work in me, and You will perform it. I have confidence You and Your word. I give You praise and glory for who You are in my life…

Ask the lord what he wants to say to you about today’s devotional and journal it here: