August 22nd – Matthew 5:12
Matthew 5:12
Proverbs 10:18 says, “He who conceals hatred has lying lips, and he who spreads slander is a fool.” Throughout history Christians have been falsely accused of many things. Cannibalism, treason, immorality, and fanaticism were just a few. And Jesus Himself was the recipient of many unfounded and ridiculous accusations, for many were His enemies. It hurts when we find ourselves on the receiving end of other people’s lies and rumors. Yet Jesus tells us when we are mistreated for our faith, to “rejoice and be exceedingly glad.” Literally translated this means that when we are persecuted we should, “leap for joy”! Because just like God’s prophets before us, our reward in heaven will be greater than we could ever imagine! It’s hard to see our reputations dragged through the mud as a blessing. But one day as we stand at the side of a Jesus, our victory will be complete and the critics silenced forever!
