To a lesser or greater degree, those who profess a faith in Jesus Christ will invariably suffer. For some, that may merely involve scorn or ridicule. But for countless others down through the centuries, it’s cost them their lives.

In the 16^th Century, Anne Askew, a young English poet and Protestant reformer, was arrested and tortured for rejecting Catholicism. Offered freedom if she recanted she refused, answering her interrogators with clarity and even wit. Despite the brutal treatment, she spoke of her joy in Christ and her certainty of a heavenly reward.

As she was burned at the stake, eyewitnesses recorded her praying aloud and quoting Scripture until her voice was silenced by the flames. She lived—and died—with the unshakable assurance that God’s promise outweighed any earthly suffering. Said Jesus to His followers:

Luke 6:22-23 Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets. (NRSV)

Over the last few days, we’ve chatted about fearless faith and bold belief. Too many of Christ’s followers today have become all too shy about their faith, hiding their light under a bushel for fear of recrimination.

Why, when Jesus, in the face of persecution, called us blessed? When the world turns up the heat, remember—no fire on earth can burn away the reward that awaits you, so rejoice in that day, leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven.

That’s God’s Word. Fresh … for you … today.