7 I have been mocked when I stood up for You;
I cower, shamefaced.
8 You know my brothers and sisters?
They now reject me—they act as if I never existed.
I’m like a stranger to my own family.
9 And here’s why: I am consumed with You, completely devoted to protecting Your house;
when they insult You, they insult me.
10 When I mourn and discipline my soul by fasting,
they deride me.
11 And when I put on sackcloth,
they mock me.
12 Those who sit at the gate gossip about me;
I am shamed by the slurred songs of drunkards.
These verses stir up a great deal of memories and emotions. I think the pain of shame and rejection most of all.
I care a great deal about many non-christians around me, specifically my coworkers. Sometimes I feel their disregard for my faith or the choices I make and it hurts my heart.
There is a great deal for me to connect with in this Psalm. There are times when I try to stand up in my faith but I am shamed or mocked. There are times where I try to care but I simply get disregarded or hurt.
The pains of relationships to others are some of the most wounding experiences.
But my the relationships I have made in the body of Christ outweigh all of these pains. My brother and sisters lift me up and enourage my soul daily!
I am grateful for all of you.
