Coming to Christ changes our entire outlook on life. We no
longer enjoy activities, which promote the carnal flesh. We have less in common
with our family and friends. This change often triggers animosity in our
relationships. When our family and friends choose to reject us, we can be
assured it is only because they feel the conviction of Christ in their life.
They are puzzled and offended by the changes in our life, so they defend
themselves and their behavior.
They realize that if we are right to say that Jesus is the
only way to heaven, then what they believe is wrong. They believe Satan’s lie
and are convinced that we are narrow minded and bigoted. They attack us because
they know in their heart that Jesus is the only way of salvation, and they are
fighting God’s conviction of His truth. We are a bright light in their
darkness, and many cannot stand to be around us or even to think about us.
If we recognize this truth, it pads the sharp edges of
their rejection. It encourages us to pray for them, because the harder they
persecute us, the more conviction they are living under. The Holy Spirit is
working in their life, and we can pray that they will be humbled under the
almighty hand of God. This way, they too will enjoy His blessings, protection
and provision just like we do. There is no fear in God’s love (1 John
4:18), if they will only repent and believe.
We can revel in our relationship with God, not taunting
others, but living in His peace before them. They will see the difference that
God makes in our life, and they will either tolerate us, claim that we are
hypocrites or join us in worshipping our King of kings (Revelation
19:16). He fills us with His resurrection life. Though we are not perfect,
they cannot deny the change in our thoughts, actions and beliefs. We cling to,
rely on and rest in Jesus for our every need.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, when our flesh struggles to come down from the
cross, remind us that You could have done the same thing and doomed us to hell
for eternity. However, You took our shame and endured our pain to give us
freedom in Your life in us. Convict us when we serve You with the ulterior
motive of serving our self in the process. When we make merchandise of Your
people, humble us at the foot of Your cross. Help us to abide in You, just as
You abide in our Father and give us the courage to serve You even in the face
of adversity. Help us to follow Your Spirit’s direction for each moment of our
day.
Thought for the Day:
Jesus Christ crucifies our carnal nature and fills us with
Himself.