The Courage to Stand Firm: Finding Strength in the Face of Rejection - John 15:18
Today, we are diving into the theme of rejection. Rejection is a part of life for all of us and affects us socially, romantically, and professionally. The emotional toll of rejection has even been tied to physical pain based on neurological studies.
However, Jesus experienced profound rejection in his life and is our guide to remain steadfast even in the face of rejection. Jesus does NOT reject us, he selects us out of the world. We can apply the truth of our focus verse to help process the pain of rejection.
Focus Passage:
John 15:18-19 - 18 If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. NIV
Main Takeaways:
Jesus was rejected and warns us that we will experience the same as we become more like Him
Just because the world rejects us doesn't mean that Jesus does
To overcome rejection we need to process the pain, practice self-care, and use biblical affirmations to remind us of our value
Prayer:
Dear Jesus,
You were rejected by those closest to you and understand the pain of rejection well. When we face rejection, please remind us that you chose us, you call us beloved, and you sent your HS to equip us in our time of need. Help us speak life-giving words over ourselves and others when we are healing from the hurt of rejection.
In Jesus Name,
Amen
Show Notes:
Rejection triggers physical pain area in the brain - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14551436
Effects of Rejection - https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/conquering-codependency/202106/4-strategies-cope-rejection
How the 12 Apostles Died - https://www.christianity.com/church/church-history/timeline/1-300/whatever-happened-to-the-twelve-apostles-11629558.html
Believer's Bible Commentary
Copyright © 1989, 1990, 1992, 1995, 2016 by William MacDonald.
Dr. Leslie Baker-Phelps - Bouncing Back from Rejection: Build the Resilience You Need to Get Back Up When Life Knocks You Down - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1684034027
Daily Biblical Affirmations - https://sunshynegray.com/daily-christian-affirmations/
