Some sat in darkness and deepest gloom,
imprisoned in iron chains of misery.
“LORD, help!” they cried in their trouble,
and he saved them from their distress.
Let them praise the LORD for his great love
and for the wonderful things he has done for them.
MATTHEW 5:10 (CEV)
God blesses those people
who are treated badly
for doing right.
They belong to the kingdom
of heaven.
SUMMARY SENTENCE
God blesses his right-living people as he saves them from their ordeals.
DAILY FODDER
Have you ever suffered because you did the right thing? In the long run, how did that suffering turn into a blessing?
PRAYER
Merciful God, you bless us with more than we deserve. But I'm short-sighted and usually fail to see the blessings that are coming my way because of difficulties in my life. I get all puffed up, especially when I think the drama is the result of doing the right thing. Help me to step back from the situation enough that I'm able to recognize some of the ways that you are blessing me. As a citizen of your heavenly kingdom, I'm going to approach the drama in a whole different way. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name, your Kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.
