Persecution may come in a variety of forms. A snarky comment. A broken relationship. Physical, verbal or emotional abuse. Many of us know the pain and the cost of following Jesus. You might even be experiencing some form of persecution now. But Jesus wants those who are being harassed for Him to know that our reward will be great—“the kingdom of heaven.”
MATTHEW 5:10-12
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
2 Timothy 3:12
In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,
1 Peter 4:12-14
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
