Q. I live with my parents whose non-stop criticism of my stand for Jesus is driving me crazy. What can I do? Can I last out?
A. The Book of Acts tells how the Early Church developed and matured through persecution. Most of Christ’s followers paid for their testimony with their lives. Strangely, they were happy to do so! Why?
They were honoured to be associated with this King of Glory Who had died for their sins, while they suffered for His righteousness! Acts 5:41 says, ‘they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His Name.’
Paul testifies that ‘we must through much tribulation enter into the Kingdom of God’ – Acts 14:22. Whether from angry parents or a wicked world, you will suffer for your faith in Christ. 2 Tim 3:12 says, ‘Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.’
It’s not what happens to you that really matters, but how you react to it. You will find much joy in understanding that, in relating to Jesus, God is using your hardships to refocus your life and refine your soul as, taking His yoke, you learn from your Lord – Matt 11;28-30.
Deal with your parents’ criticism this way:
- If their criticism is justified, repent and adjust your behaviour;
- If not, ignore it and bear it with honour as a battle scar for Jesus;
- Instead of being angry, love them all the more – like Jesus did;
- Be assured that He is touched with your problems – Heb 4:15,16 – and will give you grace and help;
- Finally, know that He Who will never leave you – Heb 13:5 – will also keep you from falling – Jude 1:24
Now that’s real victory, and joy much deeper than happiness!