Kingdom Series: Jealous

The Unexpected Cost of Faithfulness

In a world that often promises success and popularity to those who do the right thing, we find a surprising truth in the pages of Scripture: sometimes, doing what's right can lead to opposition, hatred, and even persecution. This paradox is beautifully illustrated in the story of David and Saul, and ultimately in the life of Jesus Christ.

Consider the young shepherd David, anointed by God to be the future king of Israel. As he faithfully served King Saul, David's every action was blessed by God. He was successful in battle, beloved by the people, and even formed a deep friendship with Saul's son, Jonathan. Yet, instead of celebrating David's successes, Saul became consumed with jealousy and fear.

The turning point came after a great victory, when the women of Israel sang, "Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands." These simple words ignited a fire of envy in Saul's heart that would burn for years to come. Despite David's continued loyalty and service, Saul saw him as a threat and sought repeatedly to destroy him.

This story serves as a powerful reminder that our success and faithfulness to God can sometimes provoke unexpected reactions from others. Envy, as Proverbs 14:30 tells us, "makes the bones rot." It can corrupt even those who should be celebrating our victories alongside us.

But David's story doesn't end with Saul's hatred. Throughout his trials, David remained faithful to God and continued to prosper. The Hebrew word used to describe David's success is deeply rooted in the covenant between God and Israel. It speaks not just of outward prosperity, but of a life aligned with God's will and purposes.

As we reflect on David's journey, we can't help but see the foreshadowing of an even greater King – Jesus Christ. Like David, Jesus came as God's anointed one, full of grace and truth. His presence exposed the darkness in human hearts, provoking both adoration and intense hatred.

In His hometown of Nazareth, Jesus experienced the rapid shift from admiration to murderous rage. One moment, the people marveled at His words; the next, they were trying to throw Him off a cliff. This pattern would repeat throughout His ministry, culminating in the crowds shouting "Hosanna!" one day and "Crucify Him!" less than a week later.

Jesus Himself warned His followers of this reality: "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you" (John 15:18). He made it clear that following Him would come at a cost. The same light that draws some to God will repel others who prefer the darkness.

This truth challenges our often-comfortable understanding of the Christian life. We're reminded of Jesus' words: "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me" (Matthew 16:24). The cross, a symbol of shame and death in Jesus' time, becomes our call to sacrificial living.

The Apostle Paul, who experienced intense persecution for his faith, echoed this sentiment. He wrote to Timothy, "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12). Yet, even in the face of such opposition, Paul maintained an unshakeable hope.

In his letter to the Romans, Paul poses a powerful question: "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?" (Romans 8:35). His answer resounds with confidence: Nothing in all creation can separate us from God's love in Christ Jesus.

This assurance doesn't negate the reality of suffering, but it does transform how we view it. When we face opposition for doing what's right, we're invited to see it not as a sign of failure, but as confirmation that we're on the right path – the path that Jesus Himself walked.

In a world that often seems to reward compromise and self-interest, standing firm in our faith and values can feel isolating. But we're called to a different standard. We're called to be light in the darkness, to do good even when it's not appreciated, and to love even those who may hate us in return.

This calling isn't easy, but it's rooted in the character of God Himself. Jesus reminds us, "In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). Our peace isn't found in worldly acceptance or success, but in the unshakeable reality of Christ's victory.

As we navigate the complexities of living faithfully in a fallen world, we're encouraged to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. He endured the cross, scorning its shame, for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2). In the same way, we're called to look beyond our present circumstances to the eternal weight of glory that awaits us.

Let us, then, take heart. When we face opposition for doing what's right, we're in good company – the company of David, of the prophets, of the apostles, and of Jesus Himself. Our faithfulness, even when it comes at a cost, is not in vain. It's a powerful testimony to the transforming love of God and the reality of His kingdom.

In the end, we can rest in the promise that good will triumph. God's purposes will prevail. And those who remain faithful, even in the face of adversity, will hear those beautiful words: "Well done, good and faithful servant."

So let us press on, doing what is right, loving our enemies, and trusting in the God who turns even the schemes of our adversaries into stepping stones for His glory. For in Christ, we are more than conquerors – we are beloved children of God, secure in His unfailing love.