Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred

 HAPPY WHEN HATED

Jesus said: "Happy are you  whenever men hate you."  (Luke 6:22) We do not choose to be hated.  We are not trying to be martyers.  So why can we be happy when hated?  Consider three reasons.  First, we endure, we gain God's approval. (1 Peter 4:13, 14)  Second, our faith is refined and becomes stronger. (1 Peter 1:7)  And third, we will receive a priceless reward - everlasting life. - ROMANS 2:6, 7.

  Soon after Jesus's resurrection, the apostles experienced the happiness he spoke about.  After being flogged and ordered to stop preaching, the rejoiced.  Why? "Because they had been counted worthy to be dishonored in behalf of [Jesus'] name."  (Acts 5:40-42)   They loved their Master more than they feared the hatred of their enemies.  And they showed their love by proclaiming the good news "without letup."  Many of our brothes today continue to serve faithfully despite difficulties.  They know that Jehovah will not forget their work and their love for his name. - HEBREWS 6:10. 

The world will hate us for as long as this system lasts.  (John 5:19)  But we do not need to be fearful.  As we will see in the next article, Jehovah "will strengthen . . . and protects" his loyal ones.  (2 Thessalonians 3:3)  So let us continue to love Jehoah, love our brothers and sisters, and love even our enemies.  When we follow this counsel, we will remain united and spiritually strong, we will bring honor to Jehovah, ad we will prove that love is far more powerful than hate. 

Next time: Jehovah Will Protect You - How?

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