If we lined up Matthew 5:6 - “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for the shall be filled, and Matthew 5:10 - “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for their is the kingdom of heaven; what do we see?

 

This is a great paradox and peculiar to Christianity, and therefore persecution for righteousness’ sake is put last. Why should right standing with the God, the Maker and Owner of the universe, draw persecution upon me?

 

We seem to be hunted, pursued, run down, banished, stripped off our rights, tortured, accounted as sheep for the slaughter. This has been the effect of the enmity of the serpent’s seed against the holy seed, ever since the time of righteous Abel. And all this is for righteousness’ sake…for Christ’s sake, for He is interested in the work of righteousness in us.

 

Whatever or whoever is an enemy of you getting closer to God is an enemy of God. Enemies to righteousness are enemies to Christ.

 

What kingdom are you chasing after?

 

*Matthew 4:8-9 *- “Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory.

 

9 And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.”

 

Satan always deceptively offers to give Ishmael rather than for you to wait for the child of promise, Isaac. Persecution at times makes us to consider Satan’s offer rather than what he promised to give.

 

Nevertheless, Jesus encourages that we should be of good cheer. Because of these persecution, we are blessed, for it is an honour and opportunity of glorifying Christ, of doing good and of experiencing special comforts and visits of grace and tokens of God’s presence. We have a recompense of theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Just as we shall inherit the earth, so also the kingdom of heaven is ours.

 

Practical Application

 

To apply the message of Matthew 5:10 in our daily life, we need to:

 

1. Stand for Truth: Be willing to take a stand for what is right, even if it means facing opposition or persecution.

 

2. Pray for Persecuted Believers: Pray for those who are suffering persecution for their faith, asking God to strengthen and comfort them.

 

3. Seek God's Will: Regularly seek God's guidance and direction, ensuring that personal decisions align with His will.

 

4. Foster Unity: Work towards maintaining unity within the Christian community, promoting love and understanding among believers.

 

5. Pursue Righteousness: Continuously strive for righteous living, seeking to honour God in all actions and decisions.

 

Father, I receive the blessedness of persecution for righteousness’ sake. Let your strength and grace be available to me in all seasons of my life.