4 Ways To Face Rejection

I’ve heard it said, “It’s none of your business what someone else thinks of you.” While I agree with this statement to a point, I do believe we have a responsibility as to care about character and reputation.

“A good reputation is more valuable than costly perfume….” Ecclesiastes 7:1 (NLT)

Paul speaks to this very subject. In his letter to the Corinthians, he explains his desire to be seen as a Christ follower. Following his conversion, he conducted himself in ways that led people to the conclusion he was a servant of Christ and a steward of God’s Word.

“Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ

and stewards of the mysteries of God.”

1 Corinthians 4:1 (NASB)

Yet, while we should be aware of what others think of us, we can’t allow ourselves to fret and worry when people reject us. We can influence how others perceive us by controlling our actions, behaviors, and words, but we can’t make people accept us, believe us, or even like us — if they choose not to.

It’s our responsibility to pursue truth and behave appropriately—what others choose to believe about us — is up to them.

Criticism and rejection are a part of life. No matter who we are, how we act, or what we believe, there will always be someone who disagrees with our point of view or simply dislikes us. If we allow it, rejection can affect how we view ourselves. Therefore, we must courageously accept the reality of rejection, make wise choices regarding how we handle it, and place our focus on what God thinks of us — and not man.

When we are rejected by someone we love, the pain can cause us to sink into despair, feeling as though we are unworthy of love, and tempting us to make poor decisions in an effort to try to hold on to an unhealthy relationship. The good news is, we can heal from these and other rejections when we experience them –– if we make the courageous decision to do so.

There is one person who will never reject us, who longs for us to embrace the immeasurable and unconditional love He has for us — our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The one who will not only heal our scars but will give us the courage to view ourselves in His light, to stand firm in His truth, and to persevere as we seek healthy relationships that supply us with the love and acceptance we need and deserve.

We must remember, we are never alone when we are rejected, Christ stands lovingly right by our side. He too experienced rejection from many people –– and still does to this very day. We can learn by His example and we can be comforted by His presence. When others reject us… and they will, we must keep our focus on God and surround ourselves with people who support and encourage us.

“For not even His brothers were believing in Him.”

John 7:5 (NASB)

Begin courageously facing rejection by: