“They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you” (1 Peter 4:4).
Why are you so afraid of being rejected by those who reject the Lord? This is a question the faithful need to ask themselves because this is one of our temptations. We want others to like us. When we choose to live in a godly way, we shall be ridiculed. Do not join in reckless living, but live as the Lord teaches you to live. Learn to expect others to revile you because you do not join in their sinfulness.
Lord, help me neither to be self-righteous, nor abandoned to the way of the world. Teach me to walk in grace and mercy and to grant the same to others. I need Your love to flow through me so that I would hold fast to what is right while also understanding that we all need grace. Guide me Lord in the way of life that leads to eternity with You. Help me through every temptation that comes my way.
Holy Spirit, You know the struggles that go on inside of me. You know where I falter with temptation. Help me to inwardly and outwardly look to You as the One who will guide me in how to live life and the attitude that I need to have. Help me to not join in the way of the world, but to join with You in the way of eternity. Guide me dear Lord and help me to always follow You. Amen.
