How to Be Hated in 3 Simple Steps — Monday
Matthew 12:30
“Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me.” (NLT)
You can usually find me somewhere in the middle of an argument.
Allow me to clarify: What I should really say is that usually, you’ll find me sitting in the middle of two or more people who are having an argument—while I sit quietly and observe.
This leads some to believe I’m non-confrontational, while others may assume I’m too nervous to voice my opinion. But anyone who knows me well understands that neither of these are actually true.
In reality, I’ve just learned that some things simply aren’t that important.
A few weeks ago, some friends and I grabbed dinner at a local restaurant. As two of my buddies ordered their wings, an argument broke out over ranch dressing.
Yep, you heard me. Ranch. Dressing.
As one friend tried to comprehend how someone could EVER eat wings without it, the other did his best to defend his position. I enjoyed their little tennis match for a few minutes, until finally, they both turned to me looking for backup, hoping I would weigh in and break the tie. I decided to take this opportunity to ask them both a VERY important question: “Why exactly does this matter? Were you guys planning on feeding these wings TO each other...? Because if you were, I’m a little uncomfortable with that…”
They both rolled their eyes as I cracked up at my own joke. Being friends with me isn’t easy…
I’ll admit, there are plenty of times when I don’t have a strong opinion—and lots of other moments when I do. But when it comes to following Jesus, here’s something really important for ALL of us to recognize: The middle is never an option.
In fact, Jesus Himself told us that anyone who isn’t with Him is actually against Him. That’s a pretty bold statement for those of us who sometimes like to play center field. So, what exactly does that mean?
It means that whatever Jesus says, we should firmly agree with Him. Wherever Jesus stands, we must always stand with Him. However He is leading us, we must be willing and ready to follow. Every time and in every situation. In other words—we’re either with Jesus, or we’re not. There is no middle ground, no neutrality. No Switzerland and no in-between.
Over the years, I’ve been forced to pick a side in many arguments that probably weren’t “worth it.” But what I can confidently say is that being with Jesus always is.
And always will be.
Monday’s Reflection
How does today’s verse change your thinking on what it means to be with Jesus?
