Only love them when they don’t pay attention to you
We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us.
1 John 4:6 (NKJV)
Following Christ often means walking in the opposite direction of the world. When we choose to live in obedience to God, there will be those who don’t understand, who mock, or simply ignore us. This difference should neither surprise nor discourage us. The apostle John gives us a key truth: people who do not know God will not always understand our way of life. But instead of becoming frustrated or angry, our response must be love. We should not demand instant understanding but instead show patience, grace, and compassion.
- The world does not understand the spiritual
Those who do not yet know God see life from a different perspective. As the previous verse (v. 5) says, “They speak as of the world.” That’s why they don’t understand why we choose not to lie, steal, curse, or why we dedicate time to serving and gathering together. - We must not expect everyone’s approval
Sometimes we expect others to validate our faith or our spiritual decisions, but that will not always happen. Our identity is not in their approval but in the love and truth of God. - Misunderstanding should not silence our testimony
Even if others don’t understand, we continue living according to what we believe. Our silent, consistent, and loving testimony can speak louder than any explanation. - Love is our best response
Jesus taught us to love even those who don’t understand or who reject us. It’s not about winning arguments but about reflecting the character of Christ at all times. Only the Holy Spirit can transform hearts. - Trust that God will do His work in them
Our role is not to convince but to love and pray. It is God who touches the heart. He is the one who opens spiritual eyes and calls people to Himself.
We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us.
1 John 4:6 (NKJV)
Think About It:
• Have I been expecting others to understand my faith instead of simply loving them?
• Am I responding with frustration or with grace when others don’t pay attention to me?
• Who can I love today, even if they still don’t understand my lifestyle in Christ?