Colossians 1:23
…you persevere in the faith, firmly grounded, stable, and not shifting from the hope of the Gospel that you heard…
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You cannot escape being ridiculed, accused, called names or persecuted. Men’s sinful heart would always try to blame their limitations and weaknesses to others so they would always look good to the eyes of many. But, it is not because of these people that we live. Therefore, should not because of his persecution that we should respond back equally with the same act of ridicule.
The disciples of Jesus, during the early years of Christianity has suffered far more persecution and accusation that we may be experiencing now. And they even accepted death in the face of these many persecutors and people who want to make themselves great in the eyes of others. The disciples disregarded those ridicules and just go on with their callings – to minister to all and have them know Jesus our Lord.
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 +
God himself is my help.
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