John 1:11 tells us that Jesus Christ was rejected by the very people he came to save. He is pure love and light, but they did not receive him. As his devoted followers, we might find that some people will reject us because we carry his light and have his Spirit. In John 15:18 (NLT), he told his disciples: “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first.” This is true for those of us carrying forth his mission today. This challenge is a natural part of living for him. There will be people that are threatened by the light of Christ within us. We should be prepared for this reality, understanding that rejection is often a sign of the impact our faith is making.
This reaction to our light is a reminder of the spiritual battle at play. Just as light reveals what’s hidden in darkness, our presence can expose truths that others might prefer to keep concealed. Our very existence as bearers of God’s light and truth can act as a mirror, reflecting their own choices and actions in a way that makes them uncomfortable.
2 Corinthians 6:14 (NLT) reminds us, “Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?” Just as oil and water never mix, believers and unbelievers often find themselves at odds. We shouldn’t be surprised or disheartened when certain people don’t like us, especially if they don’t know us well. Being a people-pleaser isn’t part of our mission. We have too much to do for the Kingdom to be preoccupied with who likes us or why they don’t. Galatians 1:10 (NLT) reminds us, “Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.” As John 15:18 tells us, we should expect opposition because of our allegiance to Christ. Our focus should remain on serving God and advancing His Kingdom, regardless of the world’s response.
Our commitment to God must take precedence over our desire for approval from others. When we understand that opposition is part of the journey, we can better focus on fulfilling our purpose without being swayed by external opinions. This perspective helps us remain steadfast in our mission, as Paul encourages in 2 Timothy 4:2 (NLT): “Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.”
In Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT), Jesus tells us, “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” By living out our faith openly and honestly, we fulfill our role as lights in a dark world. Though this may bring discomfort to some, it also serves as an invitation for others to seek the same light and truth that we carry. In this way, our light not only reveals but also has the potential to draw others toward the hope and redemption found in Christ.
We have to be humble as God’s people, but also discerning in a way that preserves our walk of obedience to His Word. It’s not about putting anyone down or elevating ourselves above others but remaining true to our calling and living by God’s Word. When we do this, we become more resilient in the face of criticism and opposition. Our goal is not to blend in or seek validation but to shine a light that points others to Christ. By doing this, we fulfill our role as ambassadors of God’s Kingdom, regardless of the world’s reaction. As we continue in our mission, let’s remember that our strength and encouragement come from God alone, who calls us to be a beacon of hope and truth in a world that often resists His message.
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“Threatened by Your Light”, written by KLizzie, edited by Fran Mack and Kim Times, for Sundie Morning Sistas ©2024. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord! SMS is dedicated to inspiring and encouraging Christian Women through the Word of God.