“If the world hates you, understand that it hated me before it hated you". John 15:18. CSB
No one likes to be disliked but, when we learn that we are hated, that really goes deep.
The world hates us because we belong to Jesus, they hated Him first. Jesus chose us to come out of this world and serve Him, if He hadn't have done, or if, we had refused, they would have loved us too. We are so fortunate because, with Jesus we have a bright future; it is bright because, Jesus is the Light. Because of this, whenever we are in the presence of the people who hate us, the Light that we carry challenges the darkness within them and they don't like it at all.
I'm not saying that everyone who doesn't belong to Jesus, hates us. Many people love us, especially our families, but, they just don't, or won't understand the life we now live, and this can be a challenge to contend with. There are many lovely people out in the world that are nice to be around; most accept us for what we believe without persecution. This gives us the opportunity to speak about Jesus, hoping that they will feel the love of Jesus through us, and want the same.
However, there are many people who are hand-picked by Satan who will go flat out to try and make our lives a misery. Many take up residence in a church and complain about the pastor, the sermon and everything else. There mission in life is to split the church, get the pastor out of office because he says things they don't like and keep a great record of wrongs. They will spread rumours in the congregation and try to get people to agree with them. They do this because, they hate Jesus and, if you get in the way, they will hate you too. It's a lonely life being a pastor at times, especially if these type of people have stirred up so much dissension that they have believed what is said and, the unfortunate pastor has little support. If this is you, stand your ground. Let the people continue to see Jesus in your day to day communication with them. Don't give up, Jesus knows all about it and, He's the only support you'll ever need.
You may meet this type of persecution in your work or perhaps your neighbourhood. Don't shy away from it and don't ever be rude to someone who says something nasty to you. Rise above it; think how Jesus would handle this type of thing and do the same. The fact of the matter is, people will hate you because of your association with Jesus. Just the mention of His name winds people up. Why is that, because it's the name above all names and it has the power to make every knee bow and confess Him as Lord and the power to raise the dead to life.
Be grateful that you are hated so much, like Jesus was. It proves you really know Him.
If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now
Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. In Jesus' Name. Amen
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