LEARNING DAILY

1 Peter 3:1-2, Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct.

The message at CBC this weekend was not about wives and husbands, specifically. It was about what the Believer should do when he has spoken to others about Jesus and those he has spoken to do not want to hear it any longer. “When you gave your life to Jesus, not everyone in your family or circle of friends may have celebrated over your decision. But Heaven roared!” (Pastor Ed Newton). He continued by asking, “What do you do when those in your family, those you love, or those who were your friends do not want to hear your message about Jesus and how He saved/changed you anymore? You love them. You win them to Christ “without a word by your conduct.” Trust that God is working in them.”

It does not feel good when you are rejected. But read what Jesus said about your testimony being rejected. John 15:18-19, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” The world did not recognize the Messiah being looked for; they hated Jesus and sought to kill Him. Believer, because you have decided to believe in Jesus Christ and live according to His word, by walking the narrow way, the world is going to hate you. Do not be surprised if those in your family choose to put up with you or just no longer accept you. Jesus warned of this in Matthew 10:34-36). Jesus does not want there to be animosity in your family. It comes because of you doing all you can to build a relationship with Jesus. Your values changes. Your life and lifestyle begin to change as you learn more about what Jesus expects from you.

Colossians 3:3, “For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” “You do not leave those you love because they do not want to listen to you. You love them and let them observe who you are as a Believer. You live as Jesus wants you to live by walking the narrow way, so when others see you, they see the light of Jesus living in you (Matthew 5:16) (EN). You are ready to explain “the hope that is in you with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15-16). You respond with the fruit of the Spirit, love, joy, peace…. You stay firm in your conviction to walk with Jesus, even when others try to get you to be the old you, to do those things you used to do.

Believer, live out your life in Jesus Christ. “They will not see that light in you with a one-hour per week church service; it takes being with Jesus every day. Walking with Him is about a relationship. People want to see how you handle life when it ‘shakes you up.’ They want to see what you do when you come against tough situations and circumstances. You do not need to know everything, know all the correct theology. People want to see your humility to the tough, the difficult times, when you make mistakes. Your walk just needs to be consistent” (EN).

Pastor encouraged Believers to stay strong with the walk. Stay faithful. Do not quit (Galatians 6:9). It is important to know that God is at work when no one sees Him working. Your faithful walk on the narrow way is being seen; the seeds you are sowing are developing roots, breaking the soil of hard hearts.