Being Put Down

God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.

Matthew 5:11-12

“HE’S ONE OF those super-Christian morons.”

“She thinks she is just so perfect.”

“I’d like to slap the guy every which way but loose. He’s one of those snooty Christians who think they know everything.”

Ever heard such comments around the watercooler at work, in the line at Walmart, or in the doctor’s office? Many people dismiss Christians on the most ludicrous grounds. One young man converted after college. When he stopped drinking beer, carousing, and raising the devil everywhere he went, his friends were incensed. The funny thing was that he never said one judgmental word about their behavior and antics. He simply ordered a Coke instead of a beer, went home early, and bowed out when some mad caper was in the air.

Many times, the Spirit of God convicts the ungodly of their evil ways by the simple faith and actions of Christians who sincerely go about doing good, being pure, and staying away from sinful practices. How should Christians regard put-downs, animosity from former friends, and even rejection and ridicule? Remember Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount: “A great reward awaits you in heaven.”

It might be tough out there at times. But God will deal with your persecutors in time. And a great reward awaits you in heaven for your faithfulness.