August 24, 2021

HATED BY THE WORLD

John 17:14-17

I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.

Personal Challenge

If we are living Godly Christian lives, loving our God and loving our neighbor in a way that it is apparent to those around us, then we will be mistreated by those that are of the world. Jesus knew this and prayed for us. He did not pray that we would be removed from the world, because it is through His followers that His light shines into the darkness. He prayed for our protection and sanctification. This does mean that we need to be living lives that are Christlike. We are citizens of His Kingdom and no longer of earth. If we live apolitical lives, people from both sides will be angry and accusatory. If we love our neighbors, all of them, then we will be accused of not upholding God's standards. If we give of our time and possessions on a sacrificial basis, then we will be labeled foolish. If we abide by His moral standards we will be labeled old fashioned and discriminatory, We live this way because we love Him. Glory be to God!