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Post by Deleted on Apr 6, 2020 16:07:33 GMT -5
Strength in Suffering By: Alyson Kieda
Click on this link for the audio message
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness Matthew 5:10
Today's Scripture: Matthew 5:1–12 In 1948, Harlan Popov, the pastor of an underground church, was taken from his home for a “little questioning.” Two weeks later, he received around-the-clock interrogation and no food for ten days. Each time he denied being a spy, he was beaten. Popov not only survived his harsh treatment but also led fellow prisoners to Jesus. Finally, eleven years later, he was released and continued to share his faith until, two years later, he was able to leave the country and be reunited with his family. He spent the following years preaching and raising money to distribute Bibles in closed countries.
Like countless believers in Jesus throughout the ages, Popov was persecuted because of his faith. Christ, long before His own torture and death and the subsequent persecution of His followers, said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10). He continued, “Blessed are you when people . . . persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me” (v. 11).
“Blessed”? What could Jesus have meant? He was referring to the wholeness, joy, and comfort found in a relationship with Him (vv. 4, 8–10). Popov persevered because he felt the presence of God infusing strength into him, even in suffering. When we walk with God, no matter our circumstances, we too can experience His peace. He is with us.
Reflect & Pray With which of the Beatitudes do you most identify, and why? When have you felt God’s peace and presence in a trial?
Loving Father, we thank You for never leaving or forsaking us in our darkest times.
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Post by frienduff on Apr 6, 2020 20:18:57 GMT -5
Sleep well my friend . its two eighteen am in the UK . OH and let us praise the LORD .
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Post by John on May 3, 2020 17:56:18 GMT -5
There is really a two-fold blessing. There is the peace you have in knowing that you are serving the Lord, and all is well with your soul. There is also the eternal blessings you will have when you reach your eternal home in glory for being faithful unto death. It was not his time, so his captors could torture him, but could not kill him.
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Post by John on May 3, 2020 17:57:27 GMT -5
It is really an encouragement when we hear these stories about heroes of the faith.
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