Stress Test Devotional June 1

MATTHEW 5:12 | ¹² Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Do you think of yourself as part of a great company of prophets and leaders? A peer of Moses and Elijah, Jeremiah and Isaiah? God’s prophets were persecuted often when they stood up for Him and His truth. We become part of their tradition when we do so. Our reward will be great, in heaven, as their rewards are great.

Understanding life’s greater horizon, its eternal timeframe, lessens the stress of opposition. It even becomes possible to rejoice, that in a real way we are already imitating and joining the all-stars of the faith, who celebrate our courage.

Have you ever found joy in hard moments?

Gracious God,

Keep life’s long framework in my mind and heart. May I consider it an honor and joy to follow the path of Your prophets and saints.

Amen.