Obeying God in Hardships: Staying Faithful Despite Criticism

Even in the face of ridicule, God surrounds us with strength, encouragement, and His guiding light. Obeying God in hardship leads us closer to Him.

2 Corinthians 6:8

“We serve God whether people honor us or despise us, whether they slander us or praise us. We are honest, but they call us impostors.”

Hardships. They are guaranteed! Pretty much the only thing in this life that we can count on is suffering. Yet through it all, God calls us to remain faithful. Obeying God in hardship means following His direction regardless of how people treat us or what they think of us.

I remember a time I had to tell some friends that I don’t drink anymore. Almost all of them were very supportive, but a few ridiculed me for being weak. It didn’t really bother me, but it was disappointing. However, the encouragement from my true friends helped me stay committed and not lose faith.

This is why it’s so important to surround yourself with people who encourage you to keep obeying the Lord. When we choose obedience even in the middle of suffering, we prove our faith is genuine. Obeying God in hardship often comes with resistance, but it also strengthens our walk with Him.

Ecclesiastes 4:12

“A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”

We were never meant to stand alone. God gives us brothers and sisters in Christ so that when criticism or trials come, we don’t crumble under the weight. Together, we can stand firm, encourage one another, and hold fast to God’s Word.

So no matter the ridicule or rejection, choose to stand strong. Obeying God in hardship will never be easy, but it is always worth it. Your obedience not only honors Him but also deepens your faith in ways comfort never could.

Amen.

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