John 16:2

They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. - John 16:2

Dear Jesus,

Thanks for letting us know that sometimes we will even suffer at the hands of those who think they are doing you a favor. It plays a dirty trick on my mind to have someone mark me as evil and think they represent you when they are criticizing or persecuting me. Help Christians everywhere listen to your words of comfort. We cannot get our clarity from what others are saying, especially those who are persecuting us. We have to listen to you. It seems impossible for a person who hates out of "faith" to have the ability to be converted. But nothing is impossible for you. So, help me to love, forgive and actively serve even those who hurt me in the name of God. My righteousness comes from you. I will wait patiently for you to work everything out.

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

Always get your affirmation from the promises of God and not the acceptance or rejection of mere mortals.