Abundant LifeSample

Kingdom Chasers

It’s intriguing that the Sermon of the Mount recorded in Matthew 5 is one of the most renowned passages of scripture, even amongst unbelievers. And yet, Jesus’ words in His moving address to a crowd on a grassy hillside go against the grain of almost every culture in the world. I can’t encourage you enough: carve out some time to meditate on Matthew 5:1–12. Jesus’ beatitudes (the ‘Blessed are…’ statements He makes) are so profound and speak to how we should strive to live each day. His words can unlock abundant life, changing the way you view your circumstances and handle the situations you face each day.

In our verse today, Jesus tells us we’re blessed when we are persecuted for His sake. Perhaps for you, this is a brand new, left-field idea. You may never have thought about being persecuted for your faith – much less being blessed by that persecution. However, it will happen. It’s only a matter of when and to what extent. We’re blessed to live in a country where persecution isn’t usually physical harm. It might look more like verbal insults or shunning – which isn’t much fun either. Personally, I don’t feel blessed when someone insults me or says mean things about my convictions. More likely, I feel discouraged and rejected. This verse inspires me to lean into the persecution and know that I am blessed because the Kingdom of Heaven is waiting for me.

The next time you feel cold-shouldered, disregarded, or mocked for your faith, make a conscious decision to turn that feeling around, reminding yourself that you are blessed because of that persecution. Abundant life is yours! You must be doing something right if people feel like your love for Jesus poses some sort of threat to them. Today, you’re doing chin ups. That’s a good way to remember to keep your chin up when others are bent on breaking you down.

First the Word – now the Workout:

5 rounds // 10 deadlift heavy

10 chin ups