Yesterday we looked at what being a Christian is. A families.com member contacted me admitting he found it hard to always love other believers. I agree it is hard. A lot of things Christians are called to do are hard – like loving others even when sometimes they are unlovable and rub us up the wrong way.
It’s hard too at times not to let the cares of this world and the emphasis on material possessions that constantly surround us on the TV and in magazines not take over and shift our focus. Jesus was aware this was a problem when he gave the parable in Matthew 13. Look especially at verses 7 and 22.
Jesus warned his disciples, and he warns us too, that the world will hate us, because Christians are not ‘of the world,’ John 5:19. They are following a different path to the majority of people who live for the present.
Jesus stressed that the world would persecute his followers just as they persecuted him, John 15:20.
Jesus also said his disciples they would be killed for their faith, John 16:2. That is still happening in various places throughout our world. In fact incidences of this are increasing and it is even happening in USA.
Jesus gave warning that men and woman might be set against other family members, Matthew 10:21, Luke 12:51-53. Some may be called to leave their family or possessions for his sake and that is not easy. But Jesus also promised that those called upon to do this will be rewarded greatly, Mark 10:29-30.
Paul assures us God is the one who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can then comfort others,2 Corinthians 1:4. He tells us the troubles we encounter are serving an eternal purpose, 2 Corinthians 4:17.
Look at the troubles Paul endured, 2 Corinthians 4:8-11, 6:4-5. 2 Corinthians 11:25-28. Yet Paul could say it was all worth the hardship he endured and all he gave up for the surpassing know worth of knowing Jesus, Philippians 3:8.
No, Christianity is not for wimps. Jesus told us to expect trouble in the world. But he also encourages us that ‘In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world,’ John 16:33.
Bible verses from The New American Standard Version
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