“The arrogant dig pitfalls for me, contrary to Your law.” -Psalm 119:85

The wicked will not win the war, yet they can do much harm on this side of Heaven. When assaulted over the havoc they cause, it is good to remember Matthew 10:28:

“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in Hell.”

Many brothers and sisters have gone before us in a martyr’s death. Their reward is great (Revelation 6:9-11). We also have an example of how Jesus responded to His enemies on the cross. He forgave them (Luke 23:34). Pray for strength to endure as Christ did. Let us ask for God to help us stay faithful to Him as He is faithful to us, not acting contrary to His law like the wicked rebels who sought to sabotage the psalmist. Learning to love others (even our enemies) and loving God will keep us from digging our own pits to fall into. Paul reminds the church in Rome how to respond to their enemies writing, 

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is Mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him: If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:17-21)

Grace upon grace,

April

The Voice of the Martyrs remembers Christians who have paid the ultimate cost of laying down their lives for Jesus in death. June 29 is the day of remembrance.