An Investment In Our Heavenly Future

1 Peter 3:13-14 And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” 

If God be for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31) If we believe this, why do we fear telling others about Jesus? If we believe this, why do we fear rejection and persecution for choosing what is right in the eye of our Lord? In Matthew 5:10-12 Jesus said, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." Rather than see persecution, and suffering, that is the result of doing what is right; we need to see it as a way to gain heavenly reward. In other words, stop being afraid of what others will say or think, or even how they will respond, when we choose to do that which pleases the Lord. We need to stop compromising with the world, simply because of our fear of man. Proverbs 29:25 clearly states, "The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD shall be safe." When we read today's verses in their context, it is clear that a wife who honors and submits to her own husband will be criticized by the world. A man who truly loves his wife will be mocked; sometimes even by other Christian men, who are worldly. When we choose the way of peace, and choose to respond with good and kindness toward those who do evil toward us, we will be called fools and be accused of being weak. The Lord says that is okay, accept the criticism, the mocking, the name-calling, and whatever persecution comes; for we are in good company. In John 15:20 Jesus said, "Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also." When persecution and suffering come as a result of living for Jesus, be of good cheer; our heavenly inheritance, which is reserved for us and awaits us, is growing (1 Peter 1:3-5). Instead of seeing suffering as a burden and a bad thing, let us start seeing it as an investment in our heavenly future.

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Rom 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Rom 10:13).