When Brothers Hate You

You who tremble at His word, hear the word of the Lord: your brothers who hate and exclude you because of Me have said, 'Let the Lord be glorified so that we can see your joy! But they will be put to shame. Isaiah 66:5

This seems a confusing verse, especially the text that says what the brothers say. However, this is indicating they are being false. They think they are the righteous ones, puffed up in the pride of thei sin, but they are the sinners and about to be dismayed.

Ever had people be so righteous on you and by their acts and words put you down? I have. I remember a man who I had joined to work when I lived in Sydney. I had joined him out of fear, thinking that I needed help. However he did not help me and in fact put down all I wanted to do. When I realised my mistake and went to him to ask to be released he became red with rage, stood over me pointing his finger telling me what others, especially church leaders thought of me. I knew my mistake, it was joining with the man in the first place and not trusting the Lord.

I have been in church situations where others misunderstand and become angry. It does happen, even in Christendom. The important thing is to keep a pure heart, not become offended or enraged and not vindictive. If these things rise we must go to the Lord for His help and sort ourselves out because He is God and He will repay.

Being humble can be challenging but that is the heart God responds to and loves. Having to trust God to vindicate can be gut wrenching but if we allow the process we have a humble heart. Amen!

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