May the name of the Lord be praised!

Rather than focusing on the people who detract, dismiss, or despise us, we can take Paul's example to heart - insofar as we represent Christ to others. In other words insofar as we reflect the grace and truth of Jesus and people see Jesus through us, we must pray that God gets the glory. And if people dismiss us because we are faithful witnesses to Jesus, we let that fall on Jesus. It may make us sad. But we need never own the hatred of others because of our Christian witness to God's grace and truth.  Next time someone smiles at you because of an act of mercy or a word of grace, let that be credited to God. May his name be praised. Rejoice in the glory to God on account of your faithfulness, love, and witness.