1 Corinthians 4:12b-13a
When ridiculed, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we respond gently.
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The recent Manila hostage-taking that left nine persons dead has stirred a lot of hornet’s nest, both here in the Philippines and abroad. There is this marathon congressional hearing where blames are being thrown all around as no one accepts responsibility. Then, there are these reports that services of some Filipino helpers are being terminated in HK. Then, the rallies of some HK people that condemn not only the outcome of the hostage-taking but the Filipino as a whole.
But there are also those who advocate an open-minded view in all of these. All have been victim of circumstances and no one is really to blame, but some changes has to come out of it.
When our attitude is that of complete and utter surrender to God and confidence in the outcome of His purposes, then we can face anything that comes – good, bad, or indifferent. God gives the best to those who leave the choice to Him. We begin to see ridicules and persecutions as Jesus saw them – as opportunities, not obstacles. Nothing can frustrate the Christian who has died to self and lives out the purposes of God.
As you begin to flow in the will of God, the more mature you become. When people mistreat us, as Christians we forfeit the right to respond from our natural feelings and are compelled to offer a righteous response.
Righteous living is NOT an option; it is our way of life!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach me to live in You even when ridiculed or persecuted. Let me bless them who makes my life difficult. Make my heart and spirit grow fonder in Your love, yearning for Your mercy and grace. And may your same spirit awakens the heart of those who persecutes me so he may see the same light, knowing that You are the only God, the source of everything. Amen +
The Lord is near to all who call upon him.
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