In John chapter 15, Jesus plainly tells his followers, “Remember what I told you.  A servant is not greater than his master.  If they persecuted me they will persecute you also.”

How quickly we forget!

When we stand up for what we believe to be good and right, sometimes people will mischaracterize us.  They may even impute all kinds of bad motives to us falsely.  Now don’t get me wrong.  It is frustrating when we get unfairly painted as heartless, bigoted or uncaring.  It feels very unfair because it is unfair!  But here is one thing it should not be…  It should not be a surprise as though something strange is happening to us!

I think sometimes we as Christians react in anger or with sarcasm because we’ve forgotten what Jesus told us to remember.  We’ve forgotten that Jesus said we should expect resistance and persecution.

Why did Jesus say that we should remember this?  Why does Peter insist that this should not come to us as a surprise?  

I think it has to do with preparation and with managing our own expectations.  For example, if I expect people to always be understanding and sympathetic in response my faith, whenever they are unfair toward me and I feel misunderstood,  I might be unprepared to respond to them in the manner that God would have me to respond.

Peter and Jesus - I believe - are saying that even though my personal goal is to live such a good life that it attracts outsiders to the gospel, I still should not be surprised if a fiery ordeal erupts around me instead!

In Matthew chapter 10 and in Luke 12, Jesus is clear that His truth will ruffle some feathers!  Yes, Jesus is the source of life in peace to those who follow Him.  But He will also be a source of division and opposition from those who reject his lordship.

The Christian call is:

1) to respond to curses with blessing

2) to pray for our enemies

3) to never stop hoping that they may find forgiveness and eternal life in Christ Jesus our lord.

Let’s pray together.

Lord:  If we are insulted because of the name of Christ,

help us not to curse, but instead to pray for our enemies,  

please help us to desire repentance, forgiveness and salvation for everyone,

even those who mistreat us!

May we show such love and courage that it causes someone to wonder about the reason for the hope that we have.

Help us to be ready with an answer.  

But please may it be an answer that is shared with gentleness and respect.

In Jesus name, we ask all of this.  AMEN!

Devotional number 17 of 20 is complete!

May God encourage you and bless you as you follow his leading today.

Take care!

Bro Mark