Read: Acts 14:1-7
And there they continued to preach the gospel. (v. 7)
A Christian life is not always accepted by all. There are times when, as Christians, we are viewed with suspicion and displeasure by certain people. Sometimes this opposition discourages us and causes us to stop serving God.
Paul and Barnabas experienced serious opposition throughout their missionary journey. In today’s Bible reading, we see an example. In Iconium, they preached the gospel boldly. Some who heard the gospel accepted it, but others rejected it. Those who rejected it then incited people in the city, so that Paul and Barnabas were attacked, and had to flee. Did they stop preaching the gospel? Not at all. In this new place, they continued to preach the gospel of the Lord.
As believers, we are called to share, no matter the response. The results aren’t our responsibility—that’s up to God. The point is sharing God’s love and greeting to people (Luke 10:9). The reality is that the gospel is not always accepted by everyone. It is not uncommon for Christians to be treated badly. But like the apostles, we are called not to give up, not to despair, not to stop serving and not to stop realizing the gospel message in our lives. As we see, when we are faithful in sharing the good news and giving a living testimony in our lives, God brings good results.
As you pray, ask God to give you strength so that you don’t lose heart and can continue to serve.
Mungki A. Sasmitais a pastor of Sangkrah Indonesian Christian Church in Solo, Central Java, Indonesia. This devotional was previously published in Wasiat, a bi-monthly daily devotional for families, produced by Words of Hope ministry partners in Indonesia. Learn more about Words of Hope's work in Indonesia.
