Being a solo Christ-follower in your family
I’m a new Christian, and my family isn’t Christian. It’s so hard sometimes to just be around them. Could you provide me with some Bible verses and other words of wisdom about perseverance?
It’s awesome that you’ve given your life to Christ! And you’re right — it’s hard when your family doesn’t share your faith and spiritual viewpoint. You may find comfort in the fact that even Jesus’ earthly family didn’t always see eye-to-eye with Him spiritually. His own brothers didn’t believe in Him, at least not for quite a while. (Check out John 7:5 and Mark 3:31-34.) But that didn’t keep Jesus from loving others, including His earthly family. Even though it can be hard to be around your closest relatives, the cool thing is that God Himself placed you right where you are in your specific family — on purpose. And He knew exactly what He was doing. He wants you there living everyday life, maybe even to help your family come to know Jesus as their Savior. Yeah, that could take some time, so perseverance is definitely the key.
Here are those verses you asked for: Romans 5:1-5, Hebrews 12:1-3, James 1:2-4, 12, Isaiah 40:28-31, Psalm 73:23-26
There’s also a great book you should pick up called How to Live With Your Parents Without Losing Your Mind by Ken Davis. Besides these resources, getting involved in a good church is important. The friends you make there can be a great encouragement and support. So check out the book, read the verses and hang in there! Rely on God’s love to show through you, even when you don’t feel like showing any love.