Verse of the Day
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?
Whether your political candidate wins or loses let’s be quick to judge ourselves before we spew venom and hate upon someone. Let’s remember, God loves that person so much that He sent Jesus Christ to die on the cross for them.
Let’s not let the devil revel in a victory of hate and division. Instead, let’s follow Jesus’ command from Luke 6:28, “bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.”
God blesses those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake. And look at what else He promises in Matthew 5:10.
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
The kingdom of heaven is a place in our souls where there is happiness, well-being and power, according to the Greek definition.
The Integrity of God’s Heart
We might see all kinds of adversities, storms and calamity on the surface, but inside is power, happiness and well-being. That is the integrity of God’s heart and the power of His promises.
2 Corinthians 6:18 says, “I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the Lord Almighty.”
What He speaks He will surely bring to pass, whether we recognize it or not, and whether we believe it or not. He is God, and He is a good, good Father.
Study the Bible verse of Matthew 5:10, and believe in the integrity and faithfulness of the God of Heaven, even in persecution.
Daily Prayer
Today’s Prayer
Lord, there is so much spiritual noise that produce distractions and drama in our lives, workplaces and families. Help us not to get bogged down in the murky mire of it, but raise us up above the noise into the quiet comfort of your arms, your peace and power. We need You, Lord. Help us to rest our minds, bodies and spirits in the stillness of your presence. Only You can set us free. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
