The Root of Rejection (Part III)

In the last two devotionals, I have been sharing about the root of rejection and how people manifest it differently in the manner they operate. Some set out to compete and beat the system. Others feel victimized and give in to the system, and the third group reject the system by rebelling against it. Today’s devotional  is about the those who rebel against the system.

Rebelling against the system

Some people choose to rebel as a reaction to rejection. Their pain is translated into insubordination against the established system and dishonoring what is right and appropriate. The consequence of their rebellion affects their walk with the Lord, creates destruction in relationships, undermines their future, and harms others. Consequently, their behavior creates more rejection by others leading to anger and frustration and developing a cycle of rebellion.

Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made an ornate robe for him. Genesis 37:3 

So Joseph went after his brothers and found them near Dothan.  But they saw him in the distance, and before he reached them, they plotted to kill him. Genesis 37:17b-18

Joseph’s brothers felt rejected by their father, and they were jealous of the attention Joseph was receiving. Their hatred led them to plot to kill their own brother. Ruben, one of the brothers, intervened, and instead, they sold Joseph into slavery (See Genesis 37). Not only their actions caused great pain for everyone involved, but they also had to live with the guilt of selling their brother and lying to their father. 

On the other hand, Joesph, who was deeply rejected by his brothers, did not allow their actions to define his identity. He remained faithful and steadfast in spite of hard times. Because he kept a pure heart, he was able to bless his family when he finally encountered them.

Injustice can cause great pain in the hearts of people, but we each have to take responsibility for the condition of our hearts. If we allow others’ bad behavior to cause bitterness and resentment to grow in our hearts, we will distrust everyone and will continue to fight against the established system. Rebellion may offer a fictitious feeling of power, but, in reality, it takes the person down a path of deeper of bondage. 

If we choose to forgive those who have rejected us, we allow God to heal our hearts and reestablish our identity.  Bitterness equals bondage! Forgiveness equals freedom!