Matthew 5:11-12

 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

 I have just been accused! It is not the accusation that disturbs me or even causes me to be alarmed. As a matter of fact it is a compliment of the highest order.

 Here is the story. Two of my friends were meeting this morning and in their conversation, my name was mentioned. One of them asked the other if he had ever heard me say that I was not doing too well. They agreed that I always said, “I am doing great!”

 As I reflect on this conversation, it has confirmed once again that our attitude is a choice. I can either choose to be overwhelmed by the situations of life, or I can obey the Word of God.

 Repeatedly we are told to rejoice, be exceedingly glad, possess pure joy or other such descriptive terms. It does not matter what the circumstances of my life are, I choose to rejoice.

 The fruit of my choice is that I allow the Lord to be the center of my life rather than the thundercloud that may be hovering over my head. So thank you very much for that accusation—I can be counted upon to be “guilty” of this infraction!

 Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!

- – - Pastor Cecil