Hated by the World
1 John 3:13
Last night I read a very interesting article which I was reminded of in my time of devotion. It would seem rather silly to be grateful for being persecuted for the faith but why have I not been hated? I mean I run into opposition from time to time but nobody has really ever threatened me for walking in my convictions. After all, the world rejected Jesus. John warns us of the coming hatred for those walking in the light. John uses the familiar story of Cain and Able to portray the worlds jealousy and anger for those rightly connect with God. Can they not see that I am a follower of Christ? Why is it that I am not persecuted for the faith? I don’t think I should look for it but man, where is it at?
It should be a good thing I’m not persecuted here but I’m afraid there might only be two reasons for the lack thereof, one of which is horrifically scary. The reason to pray for would be that the environment has been effectively reached with the Gospel and the majority of the community lives in harmonious relationship with God. The horrifically scary reason would be that the environment is so dark the light shines with no avail getting dimmer and dimmer every second. If this be the reason, Lord help us! Set aflame the fire that your children may become radical evangelist. Millions of U.S. souls depend on it.
Lord, you ignite the fire that blazes in the hearts of your children. You are in control over everything. The situation looks bleak but I know the end of the story. You win. Does the lack of persecution bring light to the issue of my ineffectiveness as a light? The community of believers’ ineffectiveness as a light? What is it really? Why are we so free to worship you yet the power of sin still dominates my surroundings? You have a reason for everything. May we, your children, endure this season of plenty always realizing our need for you. Amen!
Created about 2 years ago
