(The following is the January 11 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Matthew 10 and pay close attention to verses 16-28.)

Religious persecution happened in Old and New Testament times and continues today. It will exist until Jesus comes again, according to Matthew 24. Persecution reflects sinful humankind’s willingness to hurt or kill those who disagree with them on matters of faith.
Jesus was unjustly persecuted and crucified. While this was unthinkable, it was God’s plan. Jesus was the perfect, spotless Lamb of God sacrificed for the sin of all who turn to him in repentance and faith. We, as Christ-followers, carry forth his message. Some will respond positively to the gospel. Others will ignore it and turn away. Sadly, some will not only reject it but vigorously fight against it in any way possible, including persecuting the messenger.
This passage has several important lessons for believers:
Faithful Christians should expect persecution.
Times of persecution are opportunities to share the gospel.
The Holy Spirit is with us and helps us during persecution.
Faithfulness to the gospel may rip families apart.
Salvation is sure for those who endure to the end.
A disciple is not above his teacher, so don’t expect treatment better than what Jesus received.
Many years ago, a friend said aloud, “Cha-ching,” every time he suffered ridicule or persecution for his faith. He explained that those moments were occasions for him to store treasure in Heaven for his faithfulness to Christ. Persecution will come to faithful Christians, but enduring it is worth any cost, even death. For what can persecutors do even if they kill us but drive us into the glorious presence of Christ?
Next Step:
Have you suffered persecution for your faith? If not, why not? Pray not to avoid persecution but for faithfulness to endure it. If persecuted, consider it a privilege that others treat you like they treated Christ.
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