Devotional: Hated Decisions

John 15:18-26 Rodney and Barry are urged by some of their classmates to join them in bullying activities of a couple of students that made good grades. Jamison and his friend Samantha do not participate in loud talking in the classroom and unruly conduct in the halls of the school. Rodney and Barry declined to take part in the groups bullying plans. Their decision irritates the bully group. Their refusal is a hated decision, and the group begins making plans to get back at them. The response of the bullying group is to be expected. Jesus explains the reasons. Jesus tells His disciples that the world hates them because of their relationship to Him. The world hates them because it hates Jesus, and it hates the Father. Although the Father loves the world and Jesus gives His life for the world, the world rejects both the Father and the Son. Those who identify with Jesus and make decisions based on the teachings of Jesus are hated also. This is to be expected. Therefore, Jesus tells the disciples to love one another (v. 18) because the world does not love them (v. 19). Godly decisions are hated decisions. Prayer: God, thank you for giving us your words so that we can make decisions that pleases you. We want to abide in Jesus so that our decisions will bear fruit for you in Jesus’ name. Amen.