Christian values

Apr

2024

Facing Rejection: The Cost of Following Christ

John 15:19 reminds us, “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you” (NIV).

This verse highlights a reality – following Christ can lead to rejection.

Price of Choosing Christ

Choosing Christ comes at a cost. It means embracing values and beliefs that differ from the world’s.

It means living differently, loving differently, and serving differently. This difference can make us targets for ridicule, rejection, and even persecution.

However, Jesus offers comfort: we’re not alone. He chose us despite the world’s opposition, and He promises to be with us (John 16:33).

Persevering Through Trials

The good news is that we don’t face this rejection alone. Jesus promises to guide us and give us the strength to persevere.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

When trials come, we can find comfort in knowing He has already overcome the world. His promises and faithfulness assure us He will never abandon us.

Respond with Love

Despite the hatred, we’re called to love. Loving our enemies shows them Christ’s love and demonstrates that our motivation is love and compassion, not hatred or revenge.

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”
Matthew 5:44

Loving our enemies also frees us from the burden of bitterness and allows God’s love to transform us.

Facing rejection for your faith can be challenging, but it’s a sign you’re on the right path. You called to follow Christ, persevere through trials, and respond with love.

Commit to living a life that honors God even in the face of opposition. Trust in His love and grace, allowing Him to work through you for His glory.

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“One Minute with God”

Feb

2024

Power of Humility, Gentleness, and Patience

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2

When we think of the word “power,” we often associate it with strength, might, and dominance. However, the Bible teaches us that true power lies in humility, gentleness, and patience.

In Ephesians 4:2, we are called to be “completely humble and gentle” and to “be patient, bearing with one another in love.” These three virtues are not only essential to our spiritual growth but also to our relationships with others.

In this devotional, we will explore the power of humility, gentleness, and patience and how they can transform our lives.

Power of Humility

Humility is often misunderstood as weakness or lack of confidence. However, true humility is the opposite of pride and arrogance. It is recognizing that we are not perfect and that we need God’s grace and mercy.

When we are humble, we are free from the burden of trying to prove ourselves to others. Instead, we can focus on serving others and putting their needs before our own.

Humility allows us to learn from our mistakes and grow in our faith. It also helps us to be more compassionate and understanding towards others.

Power of Gentleness

Gentleness is often associated with being soft or passive. However, gentleness is a powerful virtue that requires great strength and self-control. When we are gentle, we are able to control our emotions and respond to others with kindness and compassion.

Gentleness allows us to be peacemakers and to resolve conflicts in a peaceful manner. It also helps us to build trust and deepen our relationships with others.

When we are gentle, we are able to see the good in others and to encourage them to be their best selves.

Power of Patience

Patience is often described as waiting without complaining. However, true patience is much more than that. It is the ability to endure difficult circumstances without losing hope or faith.

When we are patient, we are able to trust in God’s timing and to wait for His plans to unfold. Patience allows us to persevere through trials and to grow in our faith.

It also helps us to be more understanding and forgiving towards others. When we are patient, we are able to see the bigger picture and to trust that God is working all things together for our good.

Essentials

The power of humility, gentleness, and patience cannot be overstated. These three virtues are essential to our spiritual growth and to our relationships with others.

When we are humble, gentle, and patient, we are able to reflect the love of Christ to those around us. We are able to build deeper relationships and to make a positive impact in the world.

Strive to cultivate these virtues in our lives and to be a shining light to those around us.