Whenever you stand up for the things of God... when you stand up for what is right and true... when you are a cheerleader for Him and His righteousness, there will always be people who will persecute you and hate. They will twist your words, mock you, and trample on you. They will see what they choose to see, and not what God sees. Read the words of Jesus, given to His disciples...
"If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me." ~John 15:18-21
The persecution does not only come from the unbelievers, but probably the worst persecution comes from other Christians, or those, at least, who purport to be. My worst experiences have been with other Christians, and surprisingly, I have seen some of the most kindness and goodness coming from unbelievers. It's truly an upside down world.
There is a wonderful silver lining, however, to all of this madness. The promises of God show us that:
"Blessed and happy and enviably fortunate and spiritually prosperous (in the state in which the born-again child of God enjoys and finds satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of his outward conditions) are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake (for being and doing right), for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!" ~Matthew 5:10
So...
"Be glad and supremely joyful, for your reward in heaven is great (strong and intense), for in this same way people persecuted the prophets who were before you." ~ Matthew 5:12
REJOICE. Again, I say, REJOICE!!! Every time the haters speak against you, you are rewarded... not only in THIS life,.... in the Kingdom life here on earth, but also in the life to come.
Then... what happens to the haters who lie, and persecute, and gossip.....??
"A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he who breathes forth lies shall perish." ~Proverbs 19
The principles of sowing and reaping are woven throughout every part of the Bible. "Whatsoever you sow, that shall you reap."
Even though you may be the victim of bullying, of gossip, of persecution, GOD HAS YOUR BACK!!! Nothing that is said or done will go unseen...
"LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE BEFORE MEN THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD WORKS AND GLORIFY YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN!" ~ Matthew 5:16
SO.....Damn the torpedoes (the fiery darts) .... FULL SPEED AHEAD!!! © ~Kimberly @ God's Healing Power Radio Ministry. 1993-2020+
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