Some people simply can’t live with the fact that someone else may not like them. They work very hard on their personal image, strive to get along with others, and expect people to respond affirmingly. When, however, they get negative feedback instead, it really messes with their head. “What did I do wrong?” It actually exposes a form of pride in them.
Today’s text will blow their minds. Even if you were perfect there would be people who hate you. In fact. some people would hate you because you are perfect! Being hated is a fact of life. There will be nonbelievers who hate you, there will be believers who strongly dislike you. May it ever be that the reason they hate us is because they hate Jesus too. It’s unlikely that anyone who calls themselves a follower of Jesus would ever say they hate anyone, but they often do.
Don’t be surprised when people hate you because you love Jesus and remember not to hate back. Their sinful attitude should not infect your spirit but rather serve as proof that you are a true disciple.
-Pastor Joel Everhart