pThe answer to that question in 2 Corinthians 10:7? If we’re honest, it’s often… well, yes. But that can be so, so dangerous. Take a look at David. When Samuel paid a visit to his family looking for a King for Israel, he wanted to take a look at all of the sons of the father, Jesse. David wasn’t even asked by his father to join them. Left to tend the sheep, Jesse had assumed that his age and seeming unimportance compared to seven of his older brothers made him a write-off. Not a chance. David was top-notch for the job: ‘glowing with health’ (1 Samuel 16:12 NIV), and with some serious guts to go and sort Goliath, just one chapter later. In reality, he was NOT the scrawny kid his father saw. David was always going to be king. No two ways about it. Same for you. God has your opportunities lined up, despite anything/anyone that might say you won’t make it. So it’s always worth praying for patience, and bravery, with people who make you feel inferior (see the ‘What now?’). Love them, but don’t believe their put-downs. Know that God’s already given His life for you, so that you can know His approving welcome./p
pWhat now?br /
Who’s put you down? Whether it’s a past thing, or a current thing, it’s time to pray for a patient and forgiving spirit. Write it down, pray over it, and share it with a wise-Christian-friend if you need to talk. And if it’s a current thing, pray for change, too. Being filled with grace and love doesn’t mean that we have to accept something that’s outright-wrong./p