Even in his own land and among his own people, he was not accepted. – John 1:11

Rejection cuts deeply into the soul of man. To be rejected by one’s own family and others can wound a person to the very core. Jephthah, son of a prostitute, knew what it was like to be rejected (Judges 11:2). His half brothers sent him away to the land of Tob simply because of his background. He had done nothing to deserve such rejection.

Often we are rejected because of factors beyond our control. Nevertheless, the pain of rejection makes us lash out at those who have hurt us, especially when they reach out to us for help later on. Our response is frequently like Jephthah’s: “Why do you come to me now, when you’re in trouble?” (Judges 11:7).

Jesus Christ knew the pain of rejection to the fullest. The entire nation turned its back on Him, for He was “despised and rejected—a man of sorrows, acquainted with bitterest grief” (Isaiah 53:3).

Have you ever come to your friends or family with a loving witness, only to have it flung back into your face? Love them anyway. One day, like Jephthah’s brethren, they will come knocking on your door. When they do, give them a glimpse of the love of Christ in you.