Disciples Learn about
Persecution due to Righteousness

Next week the final beatitude (or clarification of the final beatitude) describes the blessing of being persecuted specifically because of Jesus. This week we hear Jesus speak in a more general sense:

A basic view of persecution is the subjection of people to hostility, cruelty, or ill-treatment based on race, political affiliation, religious beliefs, etc.

But note that Jesus is not saying a person is blessed merely for experiencing persecution. This happens all over the world, but it’s not a blessing in and of itself. Nor does getting persecuted guarantee you a place in heaven’s kingdom. Rather, as Jesus intimates, it is when one suffers for the sake of righteousness – as Jesus defines it.

When we do right, act right, think right, live right, stand up for what is right, it is not always welcomed – especially by those who are doing, acting, thinking, and living otherwise. More on that later; for now let’s ask God for insight and re-direction about how we view suffering for righteousness’ sake.

Prayer

Father God, I pray that Your Holy Spirit would teach me the blessed condition of suffering for righteousness’ sake. I don’t want to shy away from following Your way regardless of how others treat me. I pray this in the name of Jesus – the Way, the Truth and the Life. Amen.

Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God

An explanation of the connection between Psalm 119 and the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet was provided in a previous devotion.

Micro-Meditation Scripture

Psalm 119:113-120 (Samekh, 15th letter)

ס

113. I hate double-minded people,
     but I love your law.
114. You are my refuge and my shield;
     I have put my hope in your word.
115. Away from me, you evildoers,
     that I may keep the commands of my God!
116. Sustain me, my God, according to your promise, and I will live;
     do not let my hopes be dashed.
117. Uphold me, and I will be delivered;
     I will always have regard for your decrees.
118. You reject all who stray from your decrees,
     for their delusions come to nothing.
119. All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross; therefore I love your statutes.
120. My flesh trembles in fear of you;
     I stand in awe of your laws.
     

Micro-Meditation Action

Read the verses of the Psalm two times.  Focus on what you see differently on the second reading.

Mark any words or phrases that catch your attention.

Meditate: Talk (or write in a journal) with God about the words that catch your attention. Ask Him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect a response.

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Micro-Meditation
Pondering Point

The traditional meaning of the Hebrew letter Samekh is a prop or pillar. This is alluded to by the poet twice in these eight verses. Can you find them?