Conflict

And a man's enemies will be of his own household. Matthew 10:36 Christian commitment may separate friends and loved ones. In saying this, Jesus was not encouraging disobedience to parents or conflict at home. Rather, he was showing that His presence demands a decision. Because some will follow Christ, and some won't, conflict will inevitably arise. As we take our cross and follow him, our different values, morals, goals, and purposes will set us apart from others. Don't neglect your family, but remember that your commitment to God is even more important than they are. God should be your first priority. Since God deals with people individually, don't be discouraged even if your family is without understanding as to what He is telling you - nor be deterred by what they think or say. Hold firm to what you know to be true. Hold firm to what God has shown you in your life. People who don't know God will not be able to acknowledge His presence in your circumstances. Noah's neighbors and friends thought that he had completely lost his mind as they watched him build his ark. Little did they know what God had spoken to him. If they could have only foreseen the impending disaster that was beginning to unfold. May you be blessed with the courage to put God first in your life and given the discernment to know what is right when the time comes. God Bless you, J.H.