Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness

Matthew 5:10

Blessed are those who are persecuted for doing what God approves of.
The kingdom of heaven belongs to them.

Righteousness is holy and upright living, in accordance with God’s standard. God’s character is the definition and source of all righteousness and we are called to live into this. Generally, people hate a righteous life because deep down they know that it exposes their own unrighteousness. But we have the comfort of knowing the Kingdom of Heaven is promised to those who suffer for doing right.

Reflection

1. What sermon is this verse taken from?
2. In what ways are Christians persecuted?
3. How can we live a righteous life?

Take the Next Step

Living the Christian life is not an easy one. The secular world does not always understand the way we are called to live and can persecute us. But we cannot be discouraged when we’re made fun of or are hated because of standing up for what we believe in. For with reading this verse we know that through enduring persecution for doing what is right in God’s eyes promises us the Kingdom of heaven.