Thursday
Read – Luke 6:22; Romans 12:14
SOAP– Luke 6:22; Romans 12:14
Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! – Luke 6:22
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. – Romans 12:14
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Scripture is clear that believers should expect persecution, but the account of the early church in Acts also shows that many people flocked to this growing community. How is this possible? The wealthy and powerful, the religious leaders, and the social insiders were persecuting the Christians, but the poor and marginalized, the religious outcasts, and the social outsiders were drawn to a faith that welcomed them with open arms. When we face persecution and difficulties, we should remember that our faith was first embraced by the powerless, not the powerful. The witness of the church drew the scorn of those who were comfortable in their earthly lives but attracted those who recognized their need.Â
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We are blessed when our convictions and faithful actions bring persecution upon us, and we are called to bless the ones who bring it. Rather than fighting back, exerting force against them, or persecuting in return, we are called to bless: to seek their flourishing and prosperity.Â
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Thank You, God, that You are with me in my suffering. Give me the strength to return persecution with blessing and kindness. Give me opportunities to serve the powerless and bless those who persecute me.Â
‘to seek their flourishing and prosperity’… Is this the speaking of worldly things I do not seek that… I speak of the love of Jesus revealed in the blood at the cross. I used to be much more worldly now I worry about people’s souls.. on the back of our van it says: Eternity in hell is a long time to think about what you should have done!’ and then Romans 12 I do not go to just verse 14 … read the whole thing to get a clearer picture! I pray all of you that do the studies walk with God and ask for understanding through the Holy Spirit and work for the Lord! Merry Christmas! Christ is the reason for the season… For all the seasons!