There’s no denying it. The Bible tells us like it is! No holding back. 

In 1 John 3:13 we read: “Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.” In my Bible, I have those first four words underline separately. Do. Not. Be. Surprised.

In this context, “the world” is a reference to “human systems that function in ungodly ways.”* This could be a reference to ideologies, social or political movements, some people, or even certain institutions. The world, in its natural state, is in rebellion against God.

With that in mind, we are told to not be surprised when we suffer hate at the hands of the world.

This year over 7000 Nigerians have been killed because of their Christian faith. It’s astonishing and horrifying. (You don’t hear about this on the news, by the way. Hmm…)

Might this anger me? Yes. Might it make me sad? Yes. But it doesn’t surprise me.

Or think about your own church family. What if people started throwing rocks through your windows every Sunday morning? What if your pastor was thrown in jail for teaching from the Bible? What if your children were kicked out of school because of their faith, or if you lost your job for the same reason? 

Might this anger me? Yes. Might it make me sad? Yes. But it wouldn’t surprise me.

When we follow Jesus there is love. There is forgiveness. There is peace, joy, purpose, salvation, and many many other blessings! But, let’s be real. There is also hardship. You will sometimes be on the receiving end of hate.

Let’s not be surprised. 

Let’s also remember this enduring and hope-soaked word from James 1:12: that you will receive “the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”

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Notes:

-“Christie Thomas on Little Habits in the Home for Big Faith in Life” – This is my latest podcast episode. Christie is the author of “Little Habits, Big Faith.” She’s also a family discipleship coach and mom. She believes that every Christian parent, including those who feel unsure at first, can nurture deep faith in their kids through little habits that add up over time. This episode is a conversation with Christie that is down-to-earth, fun, and informative. Listen to ‘The Pulse Podcast with Matthew Ruttan’ wherever you subscribe (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) or by clicking here.

-Vacation alert: The Up Devotional will pause Monday (due to Thanksgiving in Canada) but will return on October 14, 2025.

-*Spiritual Warfare—a talk with Jon Thompson,” The Pulse Podcast with Matthew Ruttan, March 15, 2022.

-Bible quotes are from the ESV.