Spiritual Warfare: 'Not Surprising that Christians Are Hated'

God's Power for Our Battles — Sunday, December 1, 2024

Don’t behave like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he kill him? He killed him because his own works were evil, but the works of his brother were righteous. Don’t be surprised, brothers and sisters, if the world hates you.
— 1 John 3:12-13 CEB

Today's Prayer

Lord, I always hoped to be loved by You and by my fellow Christians, and also to be loved by the world. But now I realize that this is not possible. The world is full of evil and anger and violence and disobedience, and if I follow a different path than theirs, Lord, the world will never love me. But YOU will. Help me to focus on YOUR love and pleasing YOU instead of trying to keep one foot in each world. Now I know that will never work. Lead me to the path of righteousness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Sunday, December 1, 2024

Praying with Paul
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'Preparing for the End' (Ph. 4:7-11)
"Dear Father, victorious deliverer, May I be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own, based on rule-keeping but that which is through trust..."
God's Holy Fire
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'Never Leave You' (Jn. 14:15-17a)
"[Jesus said,] "If you love me, obey my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy...."
A Year with Jesus
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'An Outsider's Story'
"Dear Friend, You just have to love the apostle Levi! You may know him better as Matthew since that is the name of the first gospel in your New..."
Passion for Praise
A daily passage of Scripture emphasizing praise to our God.
'His Saving Power' (Ps. 98:1)
"Sing a new song to the Lord, for he has done wonderful deeds. His right hand has won a mighty victory; his holy arm has shown his saving power!"

Illustration

Illustration of 1 John 3:12-13 CEB — Don’t behave like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he kill him? He killed him because his own works were evil, but the works of his brother were righteous. Don’t be surprised, brothers and sisters, if the world hates you.

About This Devotional

Spiritual Warfare is a daily devotional about God's power for our battles.

The Prayer for Spiritual Warfare is written by Steve Hemphill.

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