Consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.                                                                          –Hebrews 12:3

Real followers of Christ should not become weary in well doing or fainthearted in living a holy life (Gal. 6:9). Their own Lord had to endure the contradiction of sinners all the time. Including “His own brothers” who “did not believe in Him” (John 7:5); and who said “He is out of His mind” (Mark 3:21). Whether at home or church or the workplace, those who have their minds set on living for self instead of God, will single you out, will contradict you left and right, will oppose, resist, and put you down to destroy your influence over them and those around them. They hate God and have set themselves against His laws and rule over their lives; and so, because you represent God, they are reminded of the God whom they have set themselves against, and so, they will be your natural enemies. This is natural to them, because they are enemies of God, and so, they will be your enemies too, since you are one of God’s representatives (Col. 1:21; Matt. 10:25).

At first you might find it weird that they contradict you about the most harmless things. Matters that have nothing at all to do with morals. They might be matters which are entirely petty or intellectual—but they will be sure to find some place to contradict you, or put you down and resist your influence. Since they enjoy being in charge, and in total control over their own lives, they see you as a killjoy, or someone who reminds them of their responsibilities before God, which they have trouble fulfilling because their minds are set on selfish interests.

Don’t be surprised if people like this will contradict you about literally anything. Try not to take it personally. I know it’s hard not to. But the reason that they behave like this towards you, and only you—is because they are jealous, envious, and feel guilty by your walk with God, which they have failed to live up to. Not only have they backslidden or resisted God, but they continue to do so, and this makes it even harder for them to get along with you.

The best thing you can do about people with a contrary spirit, who for all intents and purposes seek to destroy your influence, and hate you secretly, is to AVOID them. Love your enemies and pray for those who resist, persecute, and contradict you (Matt. 5:44). But don’t kid yourself; you will never be able to be friends with the world; if so, then you would be an enemy of God yourself (Jas. 4:4). There is no fellowship between light and darkness (2 Cor. 6:14). Make your choice and take control over your life! In a time and culture where it is popular to tolerate and not judge other people, for your own mental health and well-being, do yourself a favor and stop trying to make Christ out to be a friend of willful sinners, Pharisees, hypocrites, and fornicators. They often know which way to go: JESUS; but if they continue to refuse, resist, contradict you, and just be contrary towards you for any and every reason (not just religious ones)…then just GET AWAY from them. And ask God where to go…and who to be with.