7/11/13:

TFTD: "Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you." -1 John 3:13

The world hates you. Let that sink in for a minute. The world hates you. Does that surprise you? Maybe it does and maybe it doesn’t, but it isn’t a pleasant idea. I don’t know about you but I don’t like the idea of being hated by the world. But think about it, haven’t Christians been hated or disliked for 2000 years or so? Even before Jesus was born king Herrod wanted to find him and destroy him because he was a new king that was coming. John the Baptist wasn’t the most well accepted guy either, and we probably wont start on how many people "liked" or disliked Paul. So we are in good company. We shouldn’t get discouraged by how much push back the world gives. It is falling to unrepentant sin and the popular majority says that’s okay. It is not imperative that we plow through the hate and push back to love on our neighbors. They need it. They need to hear the saving message of Christ. Even as Christians we need daily reminders that we are bought and paid for by the blood of Christ. We have God's saving power and grace on our side. So remember this, you are loved by the maker of all who forgives your sins regardless of how big, small, many or few. Love (God) conquers all!!

"I win not because of my own efforts or my own goodness, but rather through the grace, love, and mercy of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He died so that I might win this game of life and live with Him forever."- Zig Ziglar