November 21, 2022

Taylor Christensen
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
Matthew 5:10-12

While I know and believe that this life on earth isn’t all that there is, I still wrestle to live daily in light of eternity. Whether it’s my wishlist or my worries, I’m constantly thinking about life this side of Heaven, and all that comes with it. And that’s without facing the level of persecution many believers around the world are facing daily, whether it’s through torture, imprisonment, or for some even death… all because they believed and refused to renounce their faith in Jesus.

Tucked in these verses from Jesus and His Sermon on the Mount hold a key for us in times of hostility because of our faith: this world isn’t all there is. Not only does that truth challenge me to be bold in sharing my faith with others, but that reality brings hope that while we won’t please the world and its ways, there’s more to this life…an eternal life of joy with Christ! We can look at each of these days as temporary, one step closer to being united with our Savior.

Lord, please give me the courage and boldness to live in light of eternity regardless of the consequences this side of Heaven. May I live and love in a way that points the lost to You and Your perfect way.