Matthew 24:9: “Then they will hand you over to be persecuted and will kill you. You will be hated by all the nations because of my name.”
Hello Precious one. I believe that if we are given the opportunity to remove some verses from the Bible, most of us may consider removing some bitter truths so that only the nice and inspirational aspects will be left. One of such bitter truths that does not sound nice at all is Matthew 24:9.
Almost every phrase in our reference Scripture sparks up emotions. Firstly, we will be handed over for persecution. Secondly, we will be killed and thirdly, we will be hated, not by one or two nations, but by all nations. What that means is that there will be no nation we can run to for refuge. We will have to go through all these because of one person; Jesus Christ.
The big question is, is our relationship with Jesus Christ really worth all these? Sacrifice is no longer considered sacrifice when it directly results in multiple returns. That is better considered investment rather than sacrifice, though something may be lost temporarily for the sake of future harvest.
In the same way, losing your temporary life on earth, losing some ungodly company in order to be counted part of God’s Family, being hated by nations in order to secure The Love of The One Who Created all nations, is not to be considered sacrifice but investment.
Beloved, the next question is: will you readily go through persecution, death, and hatred for Jesus over a period of time? Will it be something too much for you to offer in The Name of Jesus? Will you readily betray Jesus at the slightest threat against your life?
I want to challenge you today; never sacrifice your eternal life for the brief life here on earth. Death is like sleep to God and those who stand for Him, even to the point of death, will be woken up again with a crown awaiting them. They will rule with Jesus in the Heavenly Jerusalem. Jesus is coming soon, stand for Him and you will be greatly established in the Heavenly City of God.
Pray this prayer.
Heavenly Father, please grant me Grace and strength to be able to stand for You in persecution and hatred. Help us LORD, in Jesus’ Name, amen.
