I knew it was coming before it ever arrived. Being shunned is never
enjoyable. I know. I received my share of it growing up. Though a
healthy nine pounds when I was born, I soon lost my robust physique and
traded it for a skinny frame. So skinny, in fact, that beginning in
elementary age and extending through high school, I was shunned because
of it. When teams were picked for neighborhood ball games, I was always
the last to be selected. The same held true when picking sides for dodge
ball during physical education class at school. I had no perceived
athletic abilities the team captain thought would enhance his team.
Paul knew what it was like to be shunned. He was hounded by those
who couldn't stand that he preached about Jesus Christ being raised from
the dead. And he had a thorn in the flesh that led some to look at him
with disdain. Perhaps it was his appearance. Phygelus and Hermogenes
were only two who shunned him. John Mark did it earlier, and others
would later.
Though shunned by others, Paul was convinced of one
thing: "I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's
love." Romans 8:38 Neither people or unpleasant events could change the
fact that God loved him and had forgiven his sins.
There have
been occasions since my childhood when others have shunned me for
various reasons. Sometimes I've been able to fix the rift; at other
times it's unmendable. Regardless of other's opinion or actions, God's
view of me never changes. He loves me with a steadfast love. I can't
make him love me more than he already does. Nothing I do will cause him
to shun me, and nothing can ever separate me from his love. The
connection with me, which involved the life of his Son, cost him too
much to sever for any reason.
When others shun you because of
your appearance, opinions, or faith, remember God loves you
unconditionally and forever.
Prayer: Father, thank You for never
turning Your back on us in spite of our faults and failures.
Shunned
Today's Bible Verse:
"As you know, everyone from the province of Asia has deserted
me-even Phygelus and Hermogenes." 2 Timothy 1:15 NLT
Shunned
Announcement:
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God bless you!
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