“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.”— John 15:18-19 (NIV)
As believers, we must learn to be comfortable with being disliked or rejected by the world. Our goal should never be to seek the approval of people but to please God who called us. Many find it difficult to stand for biblical truth because they fear being criticized or “canceled” by society. Yet, if the early Christians were willing to face death for their faith, why should we be afraid of public disapproval for Christ’s sake?
In our anchor scripture, Jesus reminds His followers that the world’s hatred is not new. The world rejected Him first, so it should not surprise us when it rejects those who follow Him. If you are overly concerned about what people think of you, you may be tempted to compromise when challenges arise. Scripture warns us not to seek the praise of men, but rather the approval of God.
“Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.”
— James 4:4 (KJV)
We live in a time when people not only commit evil but boast about it. Some even invent new forms of wrongdoing, just as the scriptures foretold (Romans 1:30). As followers of Christ, we must stand firm in our convictions, regardless of the cost. Being chosen by God means being set apart from the world. Do not be afraid to stand out, even if it means being hated for the sake of righteousness.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for choosing me out of the world. Help me to stand firm in my faith and to never seek the approval of men above your commendation. Give me boldness to live for you, even when the world stands against me. Amen.
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