Have you ever looked around and wondered why life seems against you? You tried to be nice to people and be helpful when possible. However, your good is met with glares, insults, and disrespect. You know you’re not perfect, but do you deserve this? Shockingly, you even thought people wanted you dead because of the way they treat you. However, you say, “I’m still here.”
The Story: Jonah 3-4
In Jonah 3-4, God told Jonah a second time to go tot he city of Ninevah and give them a message. Finally, Jonah goes tot he city and advised them of the city’s destruction in 40 days. Immediately, the people believed the words of Jonah. They proclaimed a fast and put on sackcloth to reflect their repentance. No one was left out of this time of consecration.
When the king heard of Jonah’s message, he issued a proclamation that extended the resolve of the people. The king said no one will eat or drink including the animals. In addition, the entire city would call on God in hopes of Him turning away His wrath and judgment. The severity of their situation required serious and committed action. Thankfully, God saw their repentant heart and didn’t destroy the city.
Unfortunately, Jonah wasn’t pleased. He was actually angry. As a result, he sat outside the city to watch Ninevah and discuss the matter with God.
The Lesson
As you know, everyone isn’t going to like you. Some may even hate you. Their reasoning may range from one’s looks to personality to even a misunderstanding they were too angry to resolve. Regardless of their rationale, the responsibility isn’t yours for how people think or feel about you.
Your responsibility is to God. Therefore, focus on ensuring you’re in right standing with God. This means first establishing a relationship with God if you don’t have one. If you accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior and believe in His death, burial, and resurrection, then confess your sins to Him and ask for forgiveness. If He reveals areas where you did something to someone, go and apologize. With clarity of heart and mind between you and God, proceed with life. God will deal with the haters.
Live your best life. Accomplish your dreams and goals. You’ve survived much so the only thing left to do is declare with confidence, “I’m still here.”
