Genesis 37:4 "When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him."

John 15:25 "But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: “They hated me without reason.”"

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."

Being hated without cause is an aspect of Messianic prophecy that applies to both Joseph and David. . Just as Joseph was hated by his brothers, and David was hated by Saul without cause, is it any wonder that Yeshua (Jesus) was hated by the world without cause - thus fulfilling a Messianic Psalm. [Psalm 69:4]. And should it surprise us that He is still hated? And if Jesus was hated without a cause, should we expect our lives be to any different? Really?

Thousands of saints have suffered intense persecution over the years, and thousands are still being persecuted today (126,000 martyrs last year alone). The truth is that as they lay down their lives - they prepare the way for the salvation of millions of others. Since Jesus said "Greater love hath no man than this that he lay down his life for his friends", the love expressed by the martyrs is a tremendous source of inspiration to all of us. We have the greatest example of all – our Lord who laid down his life for us!

As we are rapidly approaching the end of the age, we can expect persecution to be on the rise. The Bible says that we’re sent out as sheep among wolves - so lift your head high when suffering persecution for the Lord. Your response of faith and love could well lead to the salvation of the ones persecuting you! Come on be bold – we know it’s all about pointing to Jesus.