"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

It has already been shown in verse 6 that righteousness can be understood today as holiness. We may pass over this passage quickly, thinking it applies only to those in the world today who are openly persecuted for practicing their faith. But in fact "Blessed are those who are persecuted for holiness' sake" applies to any sincere Christian, for every Christian will be persecuted at some time in their life for trying to be true to their faith. For the immature this may lead to sullenness or self-pity but that is not the faithful, joyful way in which we are called to carry the cross. "You will suffer in the world but have courage - I have overcome the world." (John 16.33)

"Since Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourself with the same intention" (1 Peter 4.1-3) so as to live for the rest of your earthly lives no longer by human desires. When you do, prepare to suffer the rebukes of those "who are surprised you no longer join them in the same excesses of dissipation." (1 Peter 4.4) "Do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you to test you. Rejoice insofar as you are sharing Christ's sufferings, so that you may be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed." (1 Peter 4.12-13)

May we never deny you Lord (though we know we have many times) out of fear of suffering persecution. But let us set our face like flint and remain steadfast all our days, keeping our eyes firmly fixed on the promise held out to those who are willing to undergo suffering for being called your own: the full possession of God's kingdom, for all eternity, age unending, forever and ever and ever, without end, joyful bliss in your realm eternally.