You Will Be Hated

Then there arose some from what is called the Synagogue of the Freedmen ... disputing with Stephen. And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke.
~ Acts 6:9-10 (NKJV)

"But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand, or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour, speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit... You will be hated by all for My name's sake."
~ Mark 13:11-13 (NKJV)

But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife.
~ 2 Timothy 2:23 (NKJV)

Human nature is to fear Darkness. God's nature is to push it back with Light. If you are Christ's, you are His vessel of Light dwelling amid Darkness. You will be hated by Darkness because it is weakened by Light in you. It will resist, dispute, or arrest you wherever it has opportunity.

Throughout the world, Christians are actively persecuted. Persecution in our nation is not yet as severe as elsewhere. But when the beast soon arises, it will be "granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them ... [with] authority ... over every tribe, tongue, and nation."

We need not worry beforehand. The Lord will give the wisdom and the Spirit in the hour needed. Even now, He is preparing us with small tests. We must learn when to avoid a foolish dispute, and when to contend for the faith.

Do not shrink back from the tests which make you strong.

Lord Jesus, You are the pure and holy Light of the World. You did not shrink back when Darkness reviled You, persecuted You, and killed You. You have utterly overcome Darkness in its every manifestation. Please give us courage to face Darkness when we encounter it.

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