Stress Test Devotional April 27
April 27, 2024
WEEK 8
DAY 50
“Blessed are those who are persecuted.” Matthew 5:10a
The suffering of Jesus’ followers is not novel, and it is not accidental, and it is not absurd. This blessing for the persecuted follows the blessing for peacemaking, and this is not accidental. Those who dive deep into the world’s troubles and divisions in God’s name will come under pressure, as the prophets did, as Jesus did, and as the early church did. Acts 7:51-53 describes the martyrdom of Stephen. In a hateful and impure world, we must often say no to things and people that are evil, and this will give rise to both organized and spontaneous opposition.
What forms does persecution take?
Have you ever experienced it?
FAMILY TIME:
Jesus does not promise our lives will be easy, but He does promise our rewards will be great. How does that make you feel?
