The Blessing of Following Jesus
My dear son,
Following me will not always bring everyone's approval. If a time comes when people speak falsely against you because of Jesus, do not let their words determine the value of your life. Their judgment does not define who you are.
The prophets who walked this road before you faced such times as well. I do not forget my children who hold onto the truth. Jesus promised a joy in heaven that lasts longer than the sound of people's applause.
On peaceful days, enjoy that peace gratefully. When you hear hurtful words, lean on me and tell me what is in your heart. On every kind of day, your Father wants you to choose love over hatred and truth over falsehood.
With all my love,
Your Father
Matthew 5:11–12
WEB11“Blessed are you when people reproach you, persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
12Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
A short reflection
Jesus encourages disciples who suffer insults, persecution, and false accusations because of him by promising a heavenly reward and recalling the persecution of earlier prophets.
World English Bible (WEB) · Public DomainRead the chapter