Tuesday, March 12, 2024
I walked into my Physical Science class and noticed an acquaintance smiling at me with a carnation in her hand. Apparently, a few immature friends had it delivered to class without my knowledge. I had to admit it wasn’t me, and neither of us felt good after that awkward conversation.
Whether you didn’t get hired for your dream job, your college of choice said “no,” or your “prom-posal” was denied, we have all been there. Rejection is terrible no matter how it’s delivered. It cuts deeper and burns your soul the more you desire or have invested in the outcome. Jesus teaches us that rejection shouldn’t keep us down. Dust yourself off and continue moving forward.
Mark 6:4-6
4 Then Jesus told them, “A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his relatives and his own family.” 5 And because of their unbelief, he couldn’t do any miracles among them except to place his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 And he was amazed at their unbelief. Then Jesus went from village to village, teaching the people.
But our personal rejections can’t compare to the ultimate rejection—turning from Christ. How many stories have you heard of Jesus unsuccessfully performing a miracle? The thing that stops God’s work in someone is their unbelief. Unbelief is different from someone’s nonbelief. It’s crazy to think two similar words elicit separate responses.
I am reminded of my friend who broke down in tears after attending CedarCreek once. He had only started believing in God weeks before but was ready to build that relationship.
Non-believers, like him, haven't been introduced to Jesus and haven't had opportunities to grow spiritually. But an unbeliever has actively rejected God’s love and truth. The people Jesus encountered in the scripture above are from Nazareth. They grew up with him and heard the stories of his awesomeness. They knew Jesus yet chose not to know him.
Do you know someone who grew up with Jesus but has since turned from him? Have you been met with rejection after extending an invitation to someone to know Jesus? Follow Jesus’ lead—it’s a minor setback for a major comeback. Mourn the loss and pray they will see what’s missing in their lives, but don’t give up. Jesus can work miracles through you!
Questions:
Did friends and family reject you when you shared your faith? How do you deal with rejection?
Next Steps:
Prepare your testimony and boldly share it with others. Pray for those who have different beliefs. Continue meeting new people and inviting them to church or to join a Group.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I continue to give my questions to you and to doubt my doubts instead of wondering if what I know is true. Being here reminds me of the blessings, lessons, and opportunities you have given me. It’s a freedom that I should not take for granted. Amen.
This post was written by Jaron Camp, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.