When Friends Turn Against You Because of Your Faith

Number 50 in the series “God Rocks: 101 Amazing Everyday Gifts!” The miracles and promises of Jesus that show us the awesome blessings we can experience each day. I hope it encourages you!

When I entered into my relationship with Jesus it was an incredible experience. I found a happiness and love I simply had never known.

So naturally I wanted to share my great news. Particularly with those closest to me.

Didn’t exactly turn out the way I expected.

Photo Credit: Lyylyn Ylyal

My dad first responded, though later recanted , “Well a little religion is a good thing but don’t overdo it.”

My closest friend said later that his mom, who was like my second mom, told him to be careful. From that day on there was a distance in my relationship with both of them.

A former girl friend, who remarkably I’d stayed friends, said, “Yeah, I heard you’d become a Jesus freak. I couldn’t believe it.” Actually her remark was well earned. But she had no interest in continuing our friendship.

I’ve got to be honest. The splintering of those relationships and some others really hurt.

Yet, as painful as that was I never thought about going back. My life had changed. God was real. I was a new person. So I rested in that.

I found though God brought new friends into my life, including my wife. Some friends who’ve remained close to this day.

Interestingly in those times when I felt most hurt I strangely felt closest to God. When I felt alone I never felt lonely like I had before.

And in an odd way the rejection confirmed to me I’d changed.

I didn’t hound people. Frankly, that’s not my style. Yet, I realized some friends just weren’t comfortable with the new me.

That gave me a confidence God was with me.

And he’d be with me in this life and the one to come. I was on a new journey and knowing that made a huge difference.

Jesus warned his disciples of this.

He said, “When people realize it is the living God you are presenting and not some idol that makes them feel good, they are going to turn on you, even people in your own family. There is a great irony here: proclaiming so much love, experiencing so much hate! But don’t quit. Don’t cave in. It is all well worth it in the end.” *

Wow, that’s not fun for sure. Sometimes it causes huge pain. Often with people we really love.

But God can more than make up for the hurts from others.

When have you experienced this?

Please share your thoughts on Facebook, Twitter or email me. Thanks.

* (Matthew 10: 21-22 MSG)