Dealing with Rejection
Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division. For from now on five in one house will be divided: three against two, and two against three. Father will be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. — Luke 12:51–53
Very few people enjoy rejection. The way of Christ, however, often makes us repulsive to an unbelieving world. Jesus spoke of such things when He said He came to bring division. His point wasn’t that He or His followers would create unnecessary conflict with others. Instead, His point was that unbelievers would often despise those who faithfully follow Him.
Jesus Himself was subject to ridicule and rejection. In John’s gospel, we read,
He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. — John 1:11
- Since Jesus faced hostility from others, we shouldn’t be surprised when our faith invites scorn.
Our Lord warned us,
Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for so did their fathers to the false prophets. — Luke 6:26
The Bible reveals that the world will get progressively worse as the end of time draws near (2 Timothy 3:13). Moral depravity and spiritual deception will reach a fever pitch. To be spiritually strong, you must be prepared to live as a light in the darkness. Remember the words of our Lord —
He who rejects you rejects Me, and he who rejects Me rejects Him who sent Me. — Luke 10:16
There may not be peace in the world, but God’s peace will remain in your heart as you lean on His strength.
Lord, help me not to be surprised when the world ridicules my faith. Give me strength to stand strong in Your truth and rest in Your peace.
