John chapter 15 verses 18-20 (NIV)
“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 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. Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.”
Luke chapter 6 verse 28 (NIV)
” Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
Sometimes in this particularly secular time in modern society, I and other Christians have got a little indignant at the way in which society now treats the church. But when I read these verses today, it struck me, that Jesus would tell me that I shouldn’t be surprised. He has warned us to expect it. Therefore if I am to expect it, how then should I deal with it? As Jesus did. He treated everyone with integrity and wisdom. He didn’t rise to the bait when He was taunted and scorned. He spoke exactly what His Father wanted Him to say, and finished the work that He was called to do. So, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit we must do likewise.
When I first began working with NHS complaints, I quickly learned not to take some of the things people said personally. They were hurting and angry and wanted to vent that anger.
People who scorn and mock the church may well be hurting and are being used by Satan for his own purposes. It’s worth remembering from the last few days of reading the Bible in One Year, of Jesus’ attitude to Judas Iscariot. He didn’t treat Judas any differently to the other disciples, in fact He still called Him friend. We need to remember that and behave the same way. That way we may turn at least some of those who oppose us, towards the One who gave His life for them.
Dear Lord,
I’m grateful for the fact that Your word teaches us how to behave in all circumstances. Help me to learn from what You teach us, and to remember that I am one of Your Ambassadors. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.