Christians Convict Others by Their Lives

1 Peter 4:4 “They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you.” 

            Lord, You know this is still true today.  As soon as someone is saved out of that mess, their friends mock them, because they have no understanding.  They are called, “Preacher Boy, Religious Wacko, Bible Thumper, and High and Mighty Goody 2 Shoes, among other things I will not put into print.”  They are persecuted because their life convicts the others of sin. 

           People want to be around others who think and act like they do.  When a Christian is called out of the group they have been hanging with to live a holy life, the others do not like it because it shows them who they themselves are. This happens in families as well.  Christians do not have to come out of a lewd lifestyle for them to be persecuted and picked on by family members.  Some are even ostracized for their beliefs.  We see that a lot with our international students at Liberty University that come from pagan countries and families.  They may not be a member of your family when they come to LU, but most leave as one of Your kids.  Some, over time, have been able to win their families.

            That’s why You told us that You came to divide families.  It is not Your heart to do so as You would like all to be saved, but You know/ knew what would happen.

            Help us all who find ourselves to be in this situation, whether with family, nationality, friends, or co-workers to live the life You intend for us so we can be salt and light to this fallen world.