Today’s Reading: John 17:13-26; Psalm 61
“I don’t have much more time to talk to you, because the ruler of this world approaches. He has no power over me, but I will do what the Father requires of me, so that the world will know that I love the Father.” – John 14:30-31a
This statement reminds us that Jesus could have overpowered Satan’s attempts to destroy him. Death had no power over him, but he submitted to God’s plan in order that we could know how much God loves us and experience that love firsthand. He who was without sin died so that we could receive the righteousness of God in our lives.
“The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me. Righteousness is available because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more. Judgment will come because the ruler of this world has already been judged.” – John 16:9-11
Judgment has already been rendered against Satan, but we are living in a time when our enemy is allowed to wreak havoc on this world we live in. As a result of that, our culture does not appreciate our faith and they mock the message of salvation that we hold so dear.
STAND TALL WHEN THE WORLD HATES YOU
Jesus’ final prayer: “Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy. I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by our truth; teach them your word, which is truth. Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.
“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will be one, just as you and I are one – as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.” – John 17:13-21
STAND TALL AND GIVE GOD GLORY IN EVERY SITUATION
Jesus has called us to bring the message of God’s love to the world around us regardless of how they respond to that message. There will be times when our message is rejected or times when we are treated unfairly because of our faith but it is okay because we do not belong to this world. Our eternal rewards will far outweigh any earthly praise and position we could attain here on earth. So let’s stand tall on the podium of life, giving God the glory in every situation. Whether we are receiving applause or criticism, congratulations or rejection, let’s stand tall for the One who PRAYED FOR US before he DIED FOR US.
Do not be surprised, my brother, if the world hates you. – 1 John 3:13
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. – 1 Peter 4:12-13
O God, listen to my cry!
Hear my prayer!
From the ends of the earth,
I cry to you for help
when my heart is overwhelmed.
Lead me to the towering rock of safety,
for you are my safe refuge,
a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me.
Let me live forever in your sanctuary,
safe beneath the shelter of your wings! — Psalm 61:1-4