Today's Bible reading is the tenth chapter or the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+10&version=NASB

In today's scripture reading we are given Matthew's account of Jesus selecting the twelve disciples and providing them instructions for ministry. One thing is clear; He did not promise that serving Him would be easy. Jesus told them plainly that they would face difficulties and opposition in ministry. He tells them they are being sent out "as sheep in the midst of wolves". Under normal circumstances, sheep would not fair well in the midst of wolves. Praise the Lord that He is our good shepherd! As a source of encouragement He tells them that God would give them the words to speak when facing those in opposition. He encouraged them to maintain a fear of the Lord and not fear men.

Regarding the matter of suffering and opposition, He told the twelve that "a disciple is not above his teacher" and if the "head of the house" is called Beelzebul, much more would the members of his household be maligned. We, the members of the Body of Christ, are of His household. Scripture tells us that some of the religious leaders of Jesus' day said that he was possessed by Beelzebul, the ruler of demons. We should not be surprised when we are maligned for our faith in Christ and for our trust in His word and His ways. As the Apostle John also said, "Do not be surprised, brethren, if the world hates you." Praise the Lord that His love for us is greater than the world's hate for us.