Family Ministry Moments - October 2026

Romans 12:14 - Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.

Hate is part of the Christian experience. Not because Christians hate others, but because followers of Christ should expect to be hated. Jesus himself was hated by many.  Does that surprise you? It shouldn’t because Jesus warned His followers that this would happen in John 15:18-25: “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.”

Throughout history Christians have been hated and persecuted simply because they worship the Lord Jesus Christ. From the persecutions of the early Roman Empire to the slaughter of Christians in Nigeria today, believers have suffered for their faith. None of this should surprise us. Jesus told us to expect it.

We can't control how others treat us, but we can control our response. In Romans 12:14, Paul tells us, “Bless those who persecute you.” How is that possible? What if someone wants to harm us, destroy our reputation, ruin our lives, or even take our lives? Are we still supposed to bless them? Yes.

Jesus gave us the perfect example at the cross when He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34) Stephen responded in a similar way while being stoned for his faith (Acts 7:60). In both cases, grace was offered in the middle of tremendous evil. Their persecutors received a blessing when they deserved condemnation.

We are to remain faithful witnesses for Christ until the very end. A godly response to persecution can speak powerfully to the souls of those opposing us and can prepare the way for future gospel work. 

Consider the story of Nate Saint and Jim Elliot, who were killed by the Ecuadorian Auca tribe in 1956. After a lengthy effort involving letters, gifts, and attempts to build trust, they sought to make contact and share the gospel. Instead, they were murdered.  

Did the other missionaries retreat in fear? No. They continued the mission. Elisabeth Elliot and others eventually made contact with the tribe, and many of the very people who had murdered her husband later placed their faith in Christ. It remains one of the clearest examples of Christian love overcoming hatred and hostility.

Their example reminds us that persecution is not merely a historical reality. It is a challenge every believer must be prepared to face. The question is not if we will face persecution, but when. Every Christian should settle this matter in their heart before that day arrives.

• Will you remain faithful to Christ in the face of persecution, even death?
• Will you stand firm on the truth of God's Word?
• Will you bow only to the Lord Jesus Christ?
• Will you remain faithful and bear witness to Him until the very end?

My prayer is that you already know the answers to those questions and that, when the time comes, you will live them out. In doing so, you may become a blessing even to those who intend to harm you.