John wants to warn fellow Christians. He wants to warn us. Just because we have the love of Christ at work within us, it doesn’t mean that people will welcome that. Remember, it was the religious leaders that had Jesus crucified…he wanted to change things for the better. They liked it the way that it was. Many people will react the same way today. Don’t be discouraged. Don’t give up on them. Hard hearts just take longer to soften up with the love of Christ. Just don’t be surprised if you meet opposition. He is with you ALWAYS… and forever!
PLEASE click ‘Share’ to extend this verse to all your Christian friends…near or far away. Send them a link to this blog. Ask if they have seen direct opposition to their sharing the Good News. Ask how that made them feel and what they did in response to such rejection. Pay attention to what they did and learned in the process. Then encourage them. Pray with and for them for courage and persistence. Pray for their safety and protection. We are the body of Christ working together for His glory. Always remember to Take Time For God’s Word(c) during the day and at 3:13 am/ pm or as you face opposition to the Gospel, recall this verse and press on. For this verse, you can set it as a Reminder on your phone for 3:13 pm on Saturday as a recurring weekly reminder. You could title it, “Do not be surprised…if the world hates you… 1 John 3:13”. Then reach out to others of faith to encourage them or to share your experiences and to get any advice or counsel which they can share with you. Remember that we are not alone. God is with us and He sends other Christians to give us support when we need their help. Persist in sharing His love. Often, it takes many encounters before people see the sincerity and genuine love that you have for them. Jesus changes everything… even hard-hearted people!
Please pray for all the Sunday School teachers, helpers, and lay leaders who share the Word of God each with at our churches and fellowship groups. They feel called to give witness and service through this type of ministry. It is essential to help our children to grow in His Word. It is also critical for women and men of all ages to continue in the study of God’s Word and to grow deeper in their faith through such training. If you are serving in such a role now (or in the past)…THANK YOU for your sacrifice of service. You are a GREAT blessing to others. Your work is important to the kingdom of heaven and to the glory of God. Stay blessed in ALL that you do. Pass it on with the power of God in you even when there is opposition or rejection from others.
