Going in Grace

Welcome to Going in Grace, a podcast where we go beyond simply understanding God's word. We explore how to live it out daily, making a meaningful impact in our lives and the lives of those around us. Let's tune in to this week's episode. If you've ever felt the sting of rejection, whether in childhood or adulthood, you are not alone. Rejection can shake our confidence, but the word of God provides the wisdom and strength to overcome it. Today, we'll unpack what rejection truly is, its impact, and most importantly, how we can rise above it through biblical truths.

So what is rejection? Rejection is the feeling of being denied, excluded, or unwanted. It can come in many forms, from being passed over for an opportunity to losing relationships that we value. At its core, rejection threatens our sense of belonging. But here's the truth, God has already accepted us. Ephesians 1:6 reminds us, to the praise of the glory of his grace, by which he made us accepted in the beloved. This means that no matter how people treat us, our identity in Christ remains secure and he, the one who truly matters, accepts us.

Rejection can come to us no matter our age and it hurts whatever season of life we are in. In childhood, rejection often comes through exclusion, parental neglect, or bullying. A child may feel unworthy due to harsh words, broken friendships, or unmet expectations. As adults, rejection shifts. We face career setbacks, relational betrayals, and even spiritual disappointments. The feeling may be different, but the enemy's goal remains the same, to plant seeds of insecurity.

If you've ever faced situations like these, now or in the past, take heart. Psalm 27:10 says, when my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take care of me. We are never abandoned or alone in Christ. Rejection can lead to deep emotional wounds, fear, self-doubt, and even bitterness, we may ask, why wasn't I chosen? Or what's wrong with me? But rather than dwell on rejection, we can embrace the truth of Romans 8:28. And we know that all things work together for the good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to his purpose. Even if we face a very hurtful situation. We need to remember that God is always behind the scenes working in and through us so that our future is a positive one. What the enemy meant for harm, God can use to refine and redirect us.

We should always remember the challenges don't come from God. He's not the one that's bringing destruction or hard times into our lives. We learn in John 10:10 that it's the thief who comes to steal, kill and destroy. Christ says, I have come that you might have life and that you might have it more abundantly. However, God can use even a challenging situation that the enemy meant for our harm and turn it around for our good.

So what should we do to overcome rejection? The best way to overcome rejection is to see ourselves through God's eyes, not man's opinions. Here are three keys. First, know your worth in Christ. Isaiah 41:9 says, you whom I have taken from the ends of the earth and called from its farthest regions and said to you, you are my servant. I have chosen you and have not cast you away. You were hand picked by God, the King of the universe. And you were created in his very own image and in his likeness. You are valuable.

Second, forgiven release. Holding onto rejection breeds bitterness. And bitterness is a killer. If we want to be healthy mentally, spiritually, and physically, we do well to remember Colossians 3:13, which says, bearing with one another and forgiving one another. If anyone has a complaint against another, even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. So even when we've been hurt, you may have even have been betrayed. Forgiveness is less about the other person. It's about you walking in the freedom that Jesus Christ died to give you.

Third, walk boldly in God's plan. When doors close, God has a better way. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, for I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. So if you felt rejected, remember, God has already accepted you. Rejection may hurt, but it does not define you. You are chosen, loved, and destined for greater things in Christ. You will reap if you faint not. Galatians 6:9 says, and let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Thank you for joining me today. If this message encouraged you, share it with someone. Until next time, go in God's grace. You've been listening to Going in Grace. Be sure to visit us online at brandistover.com.