Nothing as Sweet as Good Company!

"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in Heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." -- Matthew 5:11-12

In this wrap up to the Beatitudes Jesus encourages us to rejoice in the face of all kinds of opposition. The Greek word translated "rejoice" in our passage means to rejoice exceedingly. "Rejoice" is defined in the English dictionary, "to be glad, to take delight in something." Jesus is teaching us to face insult, persecution and false accusation with exceeding delight! This delight is fueled by knowledge of two great things: First, such opposition places us in a wonderful group of people, the prophets who have gone before us. Second, the promise of Heavenly reward for faithfulness in the face of such opposition.

When we are persecuted, insulted or opposed because of our faith we join the prophets, apostles and myriads of others who have faced such opposition for their faith throughout history. In such instances we are counted with those who have been found worthy to suffer for the Name of Jesus (Acts 5:41)! What a wonderful group with whom to find yourself numbered! Be exceedingly glad because of your place among the saints and the reward stored up for you in Heaven because of your faithfulness!

James