APRIL 29, Matthew 5:10

Do you think you would never suffer because of the right things you do for God since you are only a child? Think again. Here are some true examples of children who have faced difficult situations in their lives:

Mei Ling posted a Bible verse on her Facebook page, wanting to encourage her friends because she had found the verse helpful. While some friends liked her post, there were also others who replied that she had posted enough “Bible stuff ” and should shut up. There were others who made fun of the fact that she was a Christian and posting “un-cool” Bible verses. Mei Ling was hurt, but after sharing this incident with her Junior Worship leader, she was encouraged to continue the good work of posting encouraging Bible verses.

Michelle was training hard for the chess tournament in the under-9 age group, until she found out that the tournament would be held on a Sunday. Her chess coach told her it was all right to miss one day of church. After all, it would only be 1 Sunday out of 52 Sundays and he was sure that God would not miss her just for one Sunday. Michelle spoke with her mother and together they went to see her chess coach. They explained that Sunday is God’s day and that it is God’s commandment to keep that day holy. Participating in a chess tournament on Sunday would not be honouring to God, and so Michelle would not be going to the tournament.

When we obey God, unbelievers who are watching often feel uncomfortable, so they try to make us uncomfortable too. God wants us to pray for them. The Bible promises blessings to those who suffer for doing the right thing. Be brave like Mei Ling and Michelle. Do not give in to pressure or the temptation to retaliate against those who have been mean to you. Remember, just pray and praise the Lord.

Thought: “…if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed but let him glorify God…” (1 Peter 4:16)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, please help me do what is correct according to God’s holy Word. Help me not give in to pressure or the temptation to get even with those who are mean to me simply because I want to do God’s will and obey His command. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.