Scripture
“If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.”
— John 15:19
The Struggle of Not Fitting In
There’s something uniquely painful about realizing you don’t “belong.” Whether it’s being excluded, misunderstood, or even disliked for doing what’s right — Jesus told us to expect it. As His followers, we are not just different in behavior; we’re different in nature, purpose, and destiny. That separation can feel lonely, but it is also a mark of being chosen.
A Teacher, A Donkey, and a Sharp Truth
I remember one of my primary school teachers who used to drive a lesson home with humor and punch. He would say, “If you clothe a donkey with a three-piece suit, good shoes, a matching tie and hat — its name remains a donkey!”
The point? Changing your external appearance doesn’t change your nature. We may try to blend in with the world, dress like it, talk like it, fit its trends — but at the core, we are either elect of the Lord or of the world. There is no middle ground.
You Are Chosen — And That Changes Everything
Jesus’ words in John 15:19 are not just a warning — they are a reminder of identity. “I have chosen you out of the world.” That means:
- You have a new nature
- You walk by a higher standard
- You live for a deeper purpose
But with that comes resistance. Don’t be surprised if the world mocks your values or misunderstands your peace. You weren’t chosen to blend in — you were chosen to shine.
Application: Where Do You Stand?
It’s easy to feel the pull of conformity — to go along with culture, blend in with the crowd, and hide your faith. But today, pause and ask:
Am I trying to blend in with the world, or live as one set apart for God?
The truth is, the more we try to fit in, the more we blur our purpose. You weren’t saved to go unnoticed — you were saved to stand out and show the love, truth, and light of Jesus.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for choosing me. When I feel out of place, help me remember that I am not called to fit in but to walk with You. Give me the courage to be different — to reflect Your love, even when it costs something. I choose to belong to You, not this world. Amen.
