You're a Christian
READ: I John 3:13-18
Being a Christian today isn’t always easy, especially as a teenager. People look at us funny when we say we go to a LUTHERAN high school. Sometimes they can’t even tell because we’re afraid to show it. Pastors, parents and teachers expect us to set an example to not only our friends at school, but to friends outside of school, who aren’t necessarily Lutheran, as well. It seems they forget how hard that really is.
So, what do we do about it? Well, John says in I John 3:13, “Do not be surprised, my brothers, if the world hates you.” Some comfort, hey? But when you think about it, it is. This tells us that God knows what we’re going through. He wants us to be confident, to love our friends. We can show that love by doing our best to share the word—while putting up with their criticisms.
John goes on to say, “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us.” If Jesus could die for us, don’t you think we could at least spread that message? It’s not going to be easy, but we can trust that God will be with us.
It doesn’t mean we have to “preach” to our friends either. It can be done simply by the way we act. I John 3:18 says, “Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue, but with actions and in truth."
So the next time we’re faced with funny looks or “uncomfortable” situations, hopefully we can remember God knows what we’re going through. IN FACT, HE HAS PROMISED TO HELP US OUT.
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Ask God for strength and comfort when faced with these situations.