A funny thing happened to me this week. Without my consent, someone signed me up to over 50 email lists, ordered DVDs and magazines on my behalf and even made requests that mortgage and real estate representatives call me to answer questions etc. Needless to say, I’m not too happy about this.
What drove this individual to such mischief baffles me. Not only will I be receiving things in the mail I am expected to afford, but I have now spent hours trying to get removed from email lists or canceling orders. More than a bad joke, this is something motivated by pure hatred.
I honestly can’t think of anyone I would offend to such extent. Then again, I am known to be quite bold so I it is safe to say I may have offended many over the years using God’s word as a weapon rather than a soother. For this, I am truly sorry and hopeful God’s wisdom will continue to wash over me as I grow spiritually.
Since being saved often causes significant changes in a new believer’s life, it will inevitably bring on enemies in the workplace, at school or even in relationships. Because you are now on your way to a better you, those who loves the world will grow to hate you. By “the world” I mean everything that is “the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the pride of life, is not of the Father.” (1 John 2:16)
In time like these, it is important to remember Jesus himself was hated by many. The bible reads: “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.” (John 15:18)
Also in John’s gospel Jesus says “‘A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will persecute you; if they kept my word, they will keep yours also.” (John 15:20)
A good evidence that Christ truly lives in you can be found in those around you. If those of the world love you then you are one of them and not of God. On the other hand, if those of the world hate you based on your faith and the fruits of your life, then the Spirit living within you will allow you to rise above this hatred and inspire you to love those who hate you.
Always remember that true faith in Jesus Christ will bring consequences into our lives. How we deal with these consequences is critical to our spiritual growth. Those of weak faith rebel against the Lord and fall out of His church often reverting to their sinful ways. This one step forward two step back method is a good example of little faith and must be addressed.
“Do not wonder, brethren, that the world hates you. We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love abides in death. Any one who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” (1 John 3:13-16)
There is no such thing as an easy ride on the road that leads to eternal life. Jesus was hated, beaten and crucified, Paul, Joseph and Daniel were imprisoned and chained. As a believer and a servant of Jesus Christ, we must be ready to face a similar fate.
“For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake.” (Philippians 1:29)
Along with sufferance for the Lord comes many blessings. The bible reads “But even if you do suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled.” (1 Peter 3:14)
Am-I deserving of the hatred I am experiencing through my identity theft ordeal? Surely not, I believe no one deserves this kind of harassment. I hope it is motivated by my faith in Jesus Christ and works I have performed in His name. I also wish all of you receive the Lord’s blessings every time you have been a victim of sufferance in God’s name. More importantly, I urge you to ready yourselves for everythingl the world will throw at you until Christ’ return. Easy riders beware, the road you are on may not lead to heaven.
Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives
For inspiring us to walk in your footsteps,
Spreading your eternal light to everyone around us
And allowing You to live through our actions and our words.
Lord we pray you will continue to look after us,
After our families, our friends and even our enemies,
So that all those called are among the chosen
To rejoice with You in your kingdom.
Father we pray for your strength and for your wisdom
And ask that you keep us from temptation,
We ask you lord to bless us
As we suffer in your holy and mighty name.
God we love you and thank you for all that surrounds us!
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
