Some say this is another beatitude and it is of sorts in the fact that it is paradoxical. Are we blessed when we are persecuted and tried? Spiritually we are! It is our prayer that we put our trials and temptations in perspective as we are strengthened and focused even more on that heavenly homeland.

As christians we know that life is one of trials and some may say it is by God's design (not to take them out of this world but sanctify them as they are in the world but never of the world.) We struggle with the WORLD as it steeps itself in sin and multiplies it. A genius in the world as it progresses in its sin in its inventions with invitation to sin. Also SATAN as he capitalizes on the world as he uses them in their sin for accomplishing his own agenda as the world is a ready servant! We also struggle with your and my NATURE who is an expert and compromises and excuses and there is no end to suppressing the new man in Christ and is a master compromiser and excuser within us! It is the same negative in the beginning that live with us!

We must have endurance. One often asks why? What is the use in even trying? Satan's motivation is always destruction and to loose us from our moorings to taste of sin and enjoy it....but God's motivation is ALWAYS one of love and dealing in His love and does not try and tempt us to destruction but to His mercy which is unending ....Always His love! We ought to rejoice in discipline even though it may seem unpleasant for a time. Count it JOY as He is increasing YOU! Blessedness is in the enduring! We have and feel the scares, but are strengthened and more steadfast in our faith. Growing in grace! Never mind the devil and his purpose....God uses him too! But what do we need to endure? Three things:

1. A strong conviction in the love of God! Though it does not seem positive we need to be absolutely convicted of His love for us!

2. Whatever is brought upon us is for our good and is ALWAYS for our eternal salvation! His providential way for us and know that it is ALL from the hand of God.

3. The way of God is the ONLY way and BEST way to lead us to glory! Always setting our eyes on the prize and treasure of eternal life and glory!

Stand fast and do NOT cave in as God demands that we be steadfast and He WILL bless us abundantly. Many children of God have experienced trouble, the consequences of falling into temptation but we must stand fast in His assuredness. It may mean being burned or ostracized, but we can stand in clear conscience before God Almighty in perfect obedience and then, even though we are scared, will recieve the crown of LIFE!!!