We often have to face opposition of one sort or another. Perhaps it comes from a bully at school. Perhaps it is a rival at work. Perhaps it is a competitor who is trying to take business away from us. Perhaps it comes in the form of family members or neighbors who have a different philosophy of life than we do, or have different political convictions.
Probably the most difficult type of opposition we face is from those who believe differently than we do. This is especially difficult to take when others belittle and mock our morals and lifestyle. However, we should not be surprised that this happens. The Apostle Paul writes, “…everyone who wants to a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,” (2 Timothy 3:12 NIV) The Apostle Peter agrees. He writes, “They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you.” (1 Peter 3:4 NIV)
Whenever we face opposition, particularly when we suffer because of our faith, it is tempting to lash out at the people who are troubling us. We want to persecute those who persecute us. To do so, however, is against the teaching of Christ. He said, “…Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and unrighteous.” (Matthew 5:44-45 NIV)
Why did Jesus instruct His followers to act this way toward their enemies and persecutors? No doubt there are many reasons, but one of the main ones is that those who persecute us are not the real enemy. Those who oppose our faith are only representatives of something far more powerful and significant. The Apostle Paul writes, “Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:11-12 NIV)
According to this passage our enemy is not people, but rather the spiritual beings from whom people have learned their ungodly philosophies and false values. Our battle is spiritual, not a physical one. We can never defeat the devil and the forces of evil by physical means. We cannot destroy darkness with more darkness. This is why we must counter hate with love, cursing with blessing. The only way to defeat darkness is to shine a light on it.
How bright is your light?