The Bad Day

Bible Reading: Matthew 5:10-12, 44; 1 Peter 4:14-16

“This has been one terrible day,” Ben told his friends Reid and Joel. “The guys in gym class laughed at me because I told them to stop making fun of this kid who goes to my church. Then they started making fun of me instead.” He looked up as his mom set a plate of carrots and dip on the table.

“My day wasn’t so great either,” said Joel. “A girl in my class offered to give me the answers for the science homework that’s due tomorrow. I said no, and at lunch I overheard her telling her friends I was a ‘good little Christian’ and laughing about it.”

Reid nodded as he bit into a carrot. “I bought a pack of gum on my way home from school, and the guy at the cash register gave me too much change. My cousin was with me, and he said I was dumb for returning the extra money. I told him I did it because it was what Jesus would do, but he just rolled his eyes.” Reid sighed. “I don’t get why everyone gives us a hard time for doing the right thing!”

“I’m really not surprised to hear that you boys are being mocked for being Christians,” Ben’s mom said. “In fact, that’s good!”

The boys looked surprised. “It is?” asked Ben.

Mom nodded. “The Bible says we can expect that. Those who follow Jesus have an entirely different way of living, and it sometimes makes other people uncomfortable, so they try to make us uncomfortable too. God says to pray for them and be glad.” She grinned at the boys. “So cheer up!”

Joel frowned. “I’m not sure I get it. Why should we be glad when people make fun of us?”

“Because people also made fun of Jesus. I know it’s hard to understand, but being mocked for our faith is one way we can show others who He is. So don’t give in to the temptation to get even with those who make fun of you. Instead, pray for them, and thank Jesus for giving you the strength to live the way He wants you to.”

“Okay, Mom,” said Ben. He smiled. “I guess it wasn’t such a bad day after all!” – Linda J. Opp

How About You?

Do you get upset when others mock you for being a Christian? It hurts when others treat you that way, but remember that Jesus was treated that way too. But He didn’t try to get even. Instead, He prayed for those who persecuted Him—and He wants you to do the same. Pray for those who treat you badly for being a Christian and thank Jesus for using you to show others the way to Him.

Today’s Key Verse:
1 Peter 4:16 If anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Rejoice and pray when persecuted