I remember the first time I stood up to a bully. In my mind, victory had to be mine. But no, it didn't work out the way they portrayed it on TV. The bully didn't walk away afraid and I didn't win the ensuing fight. You don't always come out on top, even if you do the right thing.
I thought bullies were just playground problems. So, it surprised me to learn adults can easily bring middle school drama to adult life. And imagine my disappointment when I learned some bullies even carry Bibles.
Once, Jesus ignored a crowd of people who were rushing over each other to see him. His sight was set on his disciples. He warned them to watch out for what The Message Bible calls "Pharisee phoniness." Part of the lesson was that you can put on a religious show only for so long. It will catch up to you. To those who preferred the phoniness, the biggest issue with Jesus was his willingness to call it out. Their little egos couldn't handle it and their anger drove them to seek his life.
And Jesus, knowing the cost, knew his disciples must learn to cope with this kind of attitude as well. As The Message puts it, "Don't be bluffed into silence or insincerity by the threats of religious bullies." To be sure, some of them can harm you. They can even kill you. But don't let that stop you from being faithful to what God has called you to be and do. For sure don't put on a show for them or anyone else. 
Spiritual bullies don't care about your soul, but God does. God sees you, knows you and holds you. So, keep your focus on serving the Lord. Don't succumb to the bullies who only want what's best for them. Remember, the best way to reveal the lies of spiritual bullies is to live the truth of a Christ-centered life.
Stay blessed...john | 
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