Feeling Persecuted?

"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 NIV)Have you ever felt a little picked on? Maybe some kids at school are harassing you because they don't like your clothing choices or hair style? Or maybe the persecution you feel is a result of employees at work who are taking you for granted, piling more papers upon your desk when you are already swamped? If you are the parent of a teen, maybe you are going through a very hard time dealing with your child's puberty hormones which can cause him to be unpredictably moody?

Dark and heavy days are something we all encounter now and then. During such periods, it's easy to feel like the weight of the world is upon your shoulders, and that just about everyone is against you, or simply does not understand. In some cases there is real persecution going on, and in other instances, mood, hormones or stress simply causes you to feel attacked. Whatever the case may be, we must accept the fact that just as sun rises, so too, will the rain fall. In other words, although the sky may seem dark and dreary now, in due time light makes its presence known.

There will be times we are picked on for what we believe in, or for doing the right thing, but rest assured, even the Son of God endured mockery and persecution for righteousness sake.

Today, if you are feel like your load is too heavy to bear, hand in over to the Lord, and He will be swift to carry your burdens for you. Remember, He too, has shed tears and knows the sting of suffering, and those who cast their cares to the Lord will be rewarded with salvation.

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Contributed by Melanie Schurr (Copyright (c)2003 Melanie Schurr) Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living Ecstatic Loving: How to have more peace and joy in marriage, and life in general by walking in harmony with God," and "Son Salutations: A refreshing collection of modern inspirations for those who seek God each day." For more information, visit her web page at www.angelfire.com/mi/melschurr