Matthew 5:10 (NKJV)

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Bible Commentary

Matthew 5:10 is a popular Bible verse from Jesus’ famous Beatitudes sermon.

Persecution comes in many shapes, forms and sizes. It is not only Christians who are persecuted, but those who seek righteousness, as Matthew 5:10 says.

Let’s look at the Greek meaning of “righteousness”: equity, specifically justification.

God states many times over in the Bible that He loves righteousness and justice, and He requires the same from us.

Micah 6:8 says, “…And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?”

If we seek to right a wrong, or turn around a ship sailing in the wrong direction—Christian or non-Christian—we can be persecuted for seeking justice, or equity.

I believe God honors those who are honorable in their actions, particularly when it costs them something. There is sometimes great sacrifice involved in doing the right thing.

God knows the thoughts and intentions of our hearts, and He honors those who love mercy and do justly.

Unlocking the Truth – God’s Heart of Integrity

Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

We are quick to judge and condemn others based on their words and actions, but God knows the thoughts and intent of their heart. Maybe they don’t say and do things the way we would or the way we think they should.

We must ask ourselves, are we their judge, or is God? What are the thoughts and intents of our own heart?

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