S. O. A. P.

Here’s Your 90 second AM Devotional!

S-cripture:

John 15:18

If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.

O-bservation:

Shortly before His crucifixion, Jesus, while speaking to His disciples, discussed what things they could expect as His followers after He was gone. He talked about the future persecution they would have to endure. One of the things He emphasized was the fact that they would be hated, but to remember THEY hated Him first!

A-pplication:

Certainly most “Followers of Jesus” are feeling the pressure from friends in the marketplace that somehow the problems they are facing exist because they are Christians. What does a Christian who practices the teachings of Jesus do? Usually they live by a code of “Real Love.” The “Golden Rule” is applied on a daily basis, and they refuse to go along with deception in any way. In time, this becomes a threat to their associates. Remember when you were a little child and a friend messed up, and then the friend wanted you to mess up with them instead of just admitting they had made a mistake? When you didn’t join their “mess up” party you were the enemy. You were ostracized. It’s happening again. The stakes are higher and we are older, but the “mess up” party people are ostracizing us again. In fact, in a growing way they HATE us! But remember, “We Aren’t The First.”

P-rayer:

Dear Jesus,

Your reminder this AM helps me not to take it personally. Your reminder helps me know that any attack on me has already been felt by You. I’m thankful to be counted worthy to stand with You. You have made me worthy. Amen