"Blessed are you when men revile you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of me. Rejoice, and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great..."

-Matthew 5:11, 12

And indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. 2 Timothy 3: 12

Some say that depending on the outcome of the election, Christianity may come under opposition beyond anything experienced in America before. Governments that have embraced socialism have a proven history of persecuting the faith. But the focus of the Lord's words in Matthew 5 and Paul in 2 Timothy 3 is the opposition Christians face because they live godly lives and are willing to suffer for the cause of Christ. Political opposition historically has come and gone periodically, but opposition due to a godly life has prevailed throughout the church age. Jesus, holy and without sin, lived under opposition and accusation during all His earthly ministry. The disciples, the early church, and many since have faced the same. To live under opposition and accusation by the unbelieving world, nominal Christians, and even believers is the lot for those who will have blessing and joy presently and great reward for all eternity. When Christ's hour had come, and He was facing His greatest opposition and accusation, Peter wrote He set an example for us as He “kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously.” May we do the same. Be encouraged!

Scripture References: Matthew 5:11, 12; 1 Peter 2:21-23