“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave or forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
~ Deuteronomy 31:8/NIV
During Jesus Christ’s time on earth, He had many disciples, followers, and curious people. I imagine they quickly determined there was something different about Him as he fed, healed, taught, and restored many people. His actions were not to bring glory upon Himself but to show love for everyone. The Bible tells us Jesus Christ took care of people in need. He was with those who needed Him. He never abandoned those who called out to Him and needed Him! What a role model for us!
When Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross, the Bible does not tell us all twelve of His disciples were with Him. Many, if not most, of His followers, were not standing at the foot of the cross. Also, the people He healed, fed, taught, encouraged, mentored, forgave, and demonstrated kindness towards were not there. Where did everyone go? That is a very sad observation! How lonely Jesus must have felt! Can we receive the same degree of rejection that Jesus did? Absolutely!
The Bible describes people who have a servant’s heart. These kind souls quietly do what Jesus Christ told Peter to do (John chapter 21): “Take care of the lambs and tend to the sheep.” That’s what Jesus did, and followers of Jesus Christ should do the same! Unfortunately, followers of Jesus Christ with servant’s hearts may experience the same rejection, loneliness, and betrayal that Jesus did. There have been occasions when I set forth with a servant’s heart to help my brother, only to be rejected and betrayed. How should I cope with this type of rejection and loneliness?
I aim to swallow my pride, manage my frustration, and do what Jesus Christ said: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you” (John 15:12/NIV). Instead of harboring anger and resentment, I should seek to be like Jesus and love those who have betrayed me. Going back to the focal verse, if feeling betrayed, rejected, and lonely, I will seek not to be afraid or discouraged because I know God and Jesus will never leave or forsake me. As I seek to draw close to God and Jesus, they will draw close to me. What better support could I have than my Heavenly Hosts? Amen!
Self-reflection consideration: When I am feeling lonely, rejected, and betrayed, how can I use biblical teaching to cope appropriately?
Many blessings to you!
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.
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