Abiding in The Vine: Overcoming Challenges with Firm Faith
Thursday, February 27
Abiding in The Vine: Overcoming Challenges with Firm Faith
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:18
In this world, we can sometimes find ourselves facing rejection, misunderstanding, or even hostility because of our faith. It’s not easy to endure such opposition, but Jesus prepared us for this reality. In John 15:18, He reminds us that if we face hatred or opposition because of our relationship with Him, we are not alone. The world first hated Him before it ever hated us.
Jesus wasn’t surprised by the hostility He faced. He knew the darkness of this world would resist the light of His truth. He spoke boldly, lived righteously, and loved sacrificially—and for that, He was rejected. He was mocked, ridiculed, and eventually crucified. Yet, despite the world’s rejection, He remained steadfast in His mission, knowing that He was fulfilling the will of His Father.
As followers of Jesus, we often imagine the journey of faith as a road paved with gold—beautiful, smooth, and free from trouble. Yet, the reality of life is far different. The road of following Christ is not always free from hardship, opposition, or challenges. In fact, Jesus Himself made it clear that we would face difficulties. In John 16:33, He says, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Prayer for today: Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that I am not alone when I face opposition for my faith. During these moments I choose to hold on firmly to the truth written in Your Word, and not the lies fed to me by the enemy. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.