Blessed Are Those Who Are Persecuted Because of Righteousness

Matthew 5:10 | Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
 
The final beatitude takes a turn away from the positive qualities of a believer and presents a final description of life in Jesus' kingdom: persecution. Notice this isn't persecution for doing wrong. And it's not even persecution for doing what we think is right. But Jesus says persecution will happen when we live according to true biblical principles. In our fallen world, people won't like it when we live like Jesus did. When we show extravagant grace, they'll say we are weak. When we love those far from Jesus, they'll say we are compromising our principles. When we give too much, they'll say we are foolish. But what would Jesus do? Who would He hang out with? What would He give away?

Being a faithful man of God will likely include persecution. That's if we do it right. It will involve being misunderstood, criticized, belittled, and falsely accused. But it's in that very situation that Jesus says you are blessed. It's because you will walk with the remnant at that point, and God will see, He will know, and He will reward His faithful ones.
 
So, don’t give up pursuing the right kind of righteousness. You’ll be in very good company.
 
Journal Prompt: As we end these 30 days, take some time to write down some of the insights God has shown you, some of the directions He’s given you, or truths you’ve discovered in His Word. Keep this list where you can review it regularly.