How to Respond to the Labels – Intolerant, Judgmental, Hater


We must give up the vain idea of trying to please everybody. That is impossible, and the attempt is a mere waste of time. We must be content to walk in Christ's steps, and let the world say what it likes.  - J. C. Ryle   #WomenLivingWell #dailyquotes #WomensBibleStudy #GoodMorningGirls

 Some might think I live in a bubble because I’ve homeschooled my kids for the last 5 years…they’d be wrong.  For the first 18 years of my life, I attended public schools.  I also worked in the “real world” as a waitress for many years and later as a receptionist, Administrative Assistant and Business Sales Rep.  During those years, I made friends with all sorts – gay and straight, Mormon, Jehovah Witness, Muslim, Buddhist, Atheist and every denomination from Charismatic to Fundamentalist to Methodist and Presbyterian.

I sincerely enjoy people and anyone who is kind to me, I quickly adopt as a friend.

I have never been shy about my faith  – 100% of those I listed above, I discussed my faith with and a few of them I gave a Bible to as a gift.

And never – never once was I ever called intolerant, judgmental or a hater.  Why?

Because when we are able to get to know people in real life –real flesh and blood, we are able to know a person’s heart, accept them as they are and understand differences without getting angry.

But the on-line world is a whole.different.story!

Did you know that 7% of our communication is words, 38% is through vocal tones and 55% through NON-VERBAL elements like facial expressions, gestures and posture.

This means that when we discuss “hot topics” on-line, 93% of our heart as we communicate (the non-verbals) are missing.

I believe this gets Christians into hot water – FAST!

A 140 character tweet that contains “truth” as we call it  – can sound judgmental or hateful to someone who sees you as…judgmental or hateful.

A Facebook debate where we add our 2 cents, in the most gracious way we can, can come off as intolerant.

It is incredibly hard to speak “truth in love” on-line!  This is why I’m continually putting hearts and smiley faces all over my social media. It is my attempt to give some non-verbal love.

Before I share how I handle these labels, I want to share some of what I have faced on-line.  I have received hundreds of comments and emails with insults.  The first time it happened, I was devastated…it was five and a half years ago on a post about my daughter and this woman commented and said ~ “I hope your daughter becomes an atheist and never speaks to you again.”

Total shock! I only had about 50 followers at the time and it came so out of left field that it troubled me for weeks!

But as my blog grew – the volume of insults grew too.  With each new insult, I was a little less shocked.

Here’s an example of some negative comments I have received on my Women Living Well Youtube Channel:

  • I hate you. You need to be slapped, promoting these erroneous morals that destroy progression in our modern world.
  • Keep this in mind: You make the world a worse place. You are the reason for war. You are the reason for violence. You are the reason for all of the willful ignorance in the world. YOU are the cause of EVERYTHING evil involving gender equality. YOU.
  • How sad that you treat a book that has been rewritten and proven false to be absolute truth. I feel pity that you will never know real life by throwing it away. Stupid doesn’t begin to cover your retarded beliefs. Here’s hoping you grow a brain and are unable to have children to grow up into this self-destroying dogma.
  • Cuckoo! Cuckoo!
  • You are a foolish woman!!!
  • It’s preposterous to claim you follow God’s word literally. You follow what your warped surroundings have ingrained in your twisted mind.
  • Crazy that my post didn’t make it! Can’t deal with the true contradictions of your flawed bible, you ignorant creature?
  • You’re an idiot bigot.
  • You want to brain-wash your kids into your silly myth and keep them from the truth.
  • I find you Highly annoying and egregiously idealistic…I am pretty sure you are no Provebs 31 woman, and everything you claim that is so amazing to you is actually so far from reach and unattainable that your constant lust for perfection causes you severe emotional break downs.
  • God’s word? What bull sh**! What the f*** would you know what god wants?
  • this is retarded. , F*** your ideas , F*** your literal bible translation, and F*** you.

And just last week – I got a long ranting email – this is a short excerpt:

You are so fake and obnoxious in your videos. Your over-sized fake smile with your giant gums is so annoying that I’ve stopped watching your videos entirely.

OUCH!!!!!!!

To be right with God has often meant to be in trouble with me. A. W. Tozer   #WomenLivingWell #dailyquotes #WomensBibleStudy #GoodMorningGirls

For years, this has surrounded me – at times, I’d say it has even jaded me.  I have always been one to assume the good in others…but I’ll admit, I see things differently now.  I live in the midst of spiritual warfare everyday.

I used to speak more boldly…and I thought that maybe my choice to soften a bit was maturity…but now I realize it’s not maturity – it’s fear.  I have a lot of fear inside of me.

And I have cried out to God – how in the world do I respond to these people?

Luke 6:27-36 (NIV)

Love your Enemies

27 “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you29 If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them. 30 Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. 31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.

32 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. 35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

Mercy.

We follow a crucified man…the crowds hated Jesus to the point of death –of course we’re going to be labeled and insulted.

Being a follower of Christ means…

we must humble ourselves.(Philippians 2)

we must deny ourselves. (Luke 9:23)

we must live the crucified life. (Galatians 2:20)

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

***Pause for a moment…is there a person that God is bringing to mind that you need to extend mercy to?  This person has wrongfully labeled you, either in real life or on-line, and you are hurt, angry and have shut them out.

Be kinder than you feel.

Luke 6:35 says – “your reward will be great” if you extend mercy.

I have a feeling the Holy Spirit is bringing someone to mind for all of us. Do you feel that nudge?  Don’t ignore it!

We have a direct command from Jesus –”Pray for those who mistreat you.”

Go heap kindness on them! You will be blessed!

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
~Romans 12:20,21

Walk with the King,

Courtney

130 Comments

  1. My phone hit enter too soon!

    I admire you immensely. Thank you for continuing to share God’s love even in the face of such horrible treatment.

    1. Courtney,
      I so much identify with your experience online about accepting others and others not accepting you. I felt the most influence about bible learning from Messianic services. However, this year marks my seven years as a nondenominational minister without a ministry because I don’t have a husband as a minister to assist me with a ministry.

  2. I. Love. This. I think we all tend to bow to fear depending on circumstance. The fear of being judged, of being outcast, of even being overtly scrutinized. When we can place ourselves beside what Jesus endured for us…well, it brings it all into focus. No Fear. No More.

  3. Love you, Courtney! Remember that when you “pierce the darkness” some of those in the dark are going to get pricked. Then sadly their ugly comes out. Thank you for sharing and encouraging us.

  4. Courtney, first of all, you have been such a blessing to me, and I consider you a friend! God has used your words to inspire me in seeking Him in all areas of my life. Your honesty and real passion for God and people are evident in your blog, book, and in this series! I completely agree with you here, and you clarify so well how I feel about this issue. Thank you for having the courage to write this, and seeking God in these matters as you so gracefully write on a important topic. Your love shines through your words!
    Blessings,
    Leslie

  5. Hi Courtney, I first want to say I am sorry so many people have said such terrible things to you. I personally enjoy your optimistic videos. We no longer have cable… not due to fear of what is on it… but just disgust with the negativity of this world. It is refreshing to see someone who is positive and smiling for a change 🙂 I think it is interesting that shows like Duck Dynasty and 19 kids and counting are so popular. To me..those are POSITIVE shows..with people loving and kind to each other. Big media needs to pick up on the fact that many are truly hungry for encouraging people in the world and a little less negative shows. While you are getting the negative remarks now and then..I have a feeling your popularity and followers proves that more like the smiling, blond haired, bible loving girl you are just the WAY you are than the opposite type bloggers that exist! So keep smiling and keep being you!

  6. Oh, the on-line world….the more truth we write, the more attacks we’ll encounter, unfortunately. 🙁 Stand strong my dear friend in Christ. Keep shining the light for our Lord because it’s needed.

    And the spiritual warfare that we constantly battle is just another reason to keep us closer to our Savior.

  7. Hi Courtney! I love reading your encouraging posts and blogs! You do a amazing job and I totally agree with all you said here in this series.you have taught me to always look to Him for all that goes on in my life and never give up! What a positive person you are and a great friend to all.keep smiling and being who God wanted you to be.thanks!

  8. Thank you, Courtney. Blessings to you. My heart hurt just reading those comments, and I know it’s just a small sampling of the hate responses you receive. I thank you for being one who continuously responds in love and who encourages us to do the same. And yes, the Holy Spirit immediately brought to mind a person with whom I need to be better at applying these principles.

  9. Excellent post, Courtney! And you’re right on track! Stay the course! I’ve gotten these kinds of responses in the past and used to be really good at handling them. Then, went through a period of time when I was silenced. But, no more. It’s time for boldness and truth in love. Keep on keepin’ on, Sister! May God richly bless you as stand boldly and bravely against the critics and you just keep on smilin’! 🙂

  10. I think you are AWESOME! Beautiful inside and out! Your blog and your book have been such a blessing to me. Thank you for being so brave and not being silenced by the ugliness!

  11. Jesus said we should expect people to hate us because they hated Him first. Yet, somehow, even though it’s expected, it still hurts. I applaud you for responding with grace to the haters – funny that they call you that while behaving so themselves! They need Jesus, and you are being a light pointing to Him. Keep up the good work, sister.

  12. Courtney, I really like this post, and I find my thought resonating in your words. I believe that if you are right with God and following his leading for your life the impact of criticism and harsh words of others is mediated. Knowing I am right with God, doing what he is calling me to do makes all the difference, even when my actions are unpopular with others.

  13. Oh Courtney, it was really sad reading all negative comments directed towards you.

    I think you are a lovely person and your book and videos have always helped me.

  14. Hi Courtney,
    Your post made me realise the dark side of blogging! 🙁
    I was reminded of the verses in Corinthians where Paul talks about the fact that we aren’t dealing with flesh and blood, but with the powers of darkness. I was reading those comments and imagining the enemy sitting there typing the comments himself…helped me to not feel the anger rise up in me towards the “human” commenters if you know what I mean.
    I wonder if comments like those can help us to loose our grip on this world and hunger more for heaven….?
    Oh, and I specifically watched one of your videos, thinking “I have never noticed her gums before…” Turns out I didn’t see them in the clip I watched today either! Curious…. 🙂
    You go, girl.

  15. First of all I want to say you and your site have blessed me and done so much for me and my group of gal pals whom because of you were turned onto GMG and just other blog sisters encouraging one another along thank you for all you say and do. I am sorry for those comments and as Jesus cried out; “FORGIVE THEM FATHER FOR THEY KNOW NOT WHAT THEY DO” FORGIVE THEM SIS it’s hard I know I get some of the same stuff but listen you are being used by God to speak on a platform as Jesus did and He too was ridiculed and mistreated for speaking truth and so we will be and unfortunately it will only continue to get worse and worse. Keep speaking the truth my friend and stand firm never ever conform to the ways of this fallen world. The path we are on is NARROW and FEW will follow 🙂 stay encouraged you and your precious family are AMAZING and you encourage so many 🙂 Many Blessings to you <3

  16. This is an excellent post. Thank you so much for your courage. You are an inspiration to me. I have often let fear shape my heart and my life. I only recently have felt the joy and relief of letting Christ in. I want to shout the Good News from the rooftops but I am not sure how to share my changing heart with those in my everyday life so this online community has given me a way to share for now. 🙂

  17. Wow…my feelings are if they don’t like what you’re writing, then just stop reading it!
    I am soooo encouraged by what you write. I live in the Middle East, where we have to meet in homes to do studies together, as it’s not legal to do in public places (and no chu rches here either) so I enjoy reading positive and inspirational messages online. THANK YOU!! Keep up the good work thy good and faithful servant!!

  18. Oh Courtney,
    If I was there I gather you in my arms, hug you, hold you and tell you “You are loved. You are unique. No one in the universe can tell the truth like you can. It’s your story, no one else has your story, and God will see to it that the ones who need to hear your story…..will.” .

  19. Thank you for the encouragement that you give. You have always blessed me. God uses you to bless so many people. The ones who are so hurtful really need the true Joy of the Lord in their life, then they would be happy and full of God’s love.

  20. My sister, Lynn, you are an amazing Woman of God. Its not easy to be a follower of Christ but it is always worth it. You are doing an excellent job. I am proud to be connected with you. Jesus had 3 kinds of people he encountered. Peter, who denied Him, Thomas who doubted Him and Judas who betrayed Him, so to we will have these kind of people in our lives and ministry.

    I encourage you to go further, deeper and higher in Christ and in your ministry. Continue in doing the marvellous Work of God and you will be greatly rewarded.

    1. Jesus also had John, who called himself, “the one that Jesus loves”; best friends are so important to remember in times of grief.

  21. This was a great article here. I was taken aback reading the negative comments. Please don’t ever believe those. I have found this thru facebook and for the last month or so have been reading all of the posts with interest. I look forward to all of them. I love them and have taken great encouragement from them as a wife, mother, homeschooler and Catholic Christian. Great stuff on here. It is so needed for women like us. You help my faith, heart and spirit each day I read what you have here. Love all the info, ideas, encouragement. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to do this site. It is beautiful and a wonderful gift to all of us that read and treasure it. God bless you always! Happy Holy week and Happy Easter!!

  22. May I just say – you have a *beautiful* smile and whenever I watch any of your videos, your cheerful enthusiasm always brightens my day. Rock on!

    Happy Easter to you and your lovely family!

  23. Your post sure did bring someone to mind, and yesterday as I was verbally processing my ‘morning at work’… think children’s departement at a church, I realized ‘that mom’ needed my prayers as much as my encouragement instead of my hurt from being stared at to the point of being killed! 🙂 I get it, and will be praying for her family! Thank you for your authenticity – again! We need to learn to grow thick skin – those of us that ‘love’ to put our heart and joy in Jesus in the spotlight! Enjoy your Monday!!!

  24. I can’t help but think that those who wrote scathing comments to you were not subscribers but rather one-time readers with no background aside from whatever profile info may have been included in the post they read. That being said, I will admit to thinking you were a bit idealistic and sugary-sweet when I first started reading your blog. Had I stopped reading because I knew I would never be the kind of wife and mother you are I would have done myself a huge disservice. Through your writings I have come a long way in getting over the comparison game thru applying some real-life truths to my thoughts of inferiority. I am from a different background in my upbringing, in a different stage in my life, and have a different personality than you. But most importantly, I was created as my unique person, not as one to attempt to be a clone is someone else. Thank you for continuing to write. You are a blessing to so many more than you will ever be attacked by.

  25. Courtney…I’m SO sorry to see what awful things people have said to you. I just hate that people throw out such terrible words to others, just because they can hide behind their computer screens when they say them.

    I just adore your blog and I read it faithfully every week. You have really helped me grow as a Christian mother and wife, and I’m so thankful that you have continued to be strong against these online attacks so that you can bring us more inspiration and wisdom each week. Thank you !!

  26. How brave of you to write this post and to have courage to face the fools. I totally admire you (but then, I’m already on your side) and find you an inspiration (as so many do). Often people react because of their own inadequacies. If their grammar, spelling and vocabulary is anything to go by, I think they still have learning to do. This is the first time I’ve commented on your blog before and I’ve been following you for about a year.

  27. Hi

    Sorry to read about all the abuse. It is never acceptable to speak to you like this. I don’t always agree with everything you teach, but I listen prayerfully and respectfully and I have been very blessed by your ministry. Although it probably doesn’t help when it’s happening being persecuted for Christ means you’re doing something right! I often remember you in prayer and will pray for protection for you and your family.

    Lots of Love,

    Jane, Manchester, UK

  28. Wow, I can’t believe what some people are willing to say to other human beings. Praise God that He has given you the strength to go on with all that you do online- it has been a great encouragement to me 🙂

  29. This is so inspiring to so many. You are doing what God wants, speaking truth in love. Thank you. It is a beacon in a dark world. It gives us readers out here an example. We have a fellow believer to think of who is not afraid of attack to stand up for our Lord. It makes me, and I am sure others, hope and strength to do the same. The amount of sisterly love and respect I feel for you can not be expressed on here. Keep the faith, run the race, stand for Jesus!!! Your example gives me strength to do the same, no matter the cost.
    Sincerely in Him,
    Stacey

  30. I have followed you off and on for a couple years but never posted. Be true to yourself and your faith. You seem like a very loving wife and mom and a good friend. “What other people think about you is none of your business.” This phrase has helped me and I say it to myself all the time. I appreciate your honesty and willingness to put yourself out there.

  31. Courtney, your blog and the Bible-based truths you share are such a breath of fresh air! Thank you! I thank God for you and for how He is using you to minister to me and to so many others. <3

  32. Courtney, I remember you writing me after one attack several years ago. How right you are about it being a spiritual warfare. I am so thankful that HE has went before us, aren’t you? This battle isn’t ours, it’s His. We can have confidence even in the midst of the insults that He is working out His purpose in their lives and ours. His Word will never return void, never!

    May your day be full of sunshine!
    Mrs. Joseph Wood

  33. People are so hurtful. Unfortunately it doesn’t happen only online! It happens at church too. The church is under attack. Satan knows his time is limited an he will fight with all his power to destroy anyone and everyone. An why would you want to read something that is negative and depressing? There is plenty of that if that’s what people want to read. It is all too easy to let it in….so thank you for being a positive voice among the negative. All I can say is come quickly Lord Jesus…..

  34. Hi Courtney, I am shocked at some of those horrific comments. I am so grateful that you are so close to God to know you must endure attacks for His kingdom…it is spirital attacks, the devil doesn’t like that you are speaking the truth and bringing other women home and building up their families for Him!
    May God bless you abundantly.. Keep up His work.
    God bless
    Cheri

  35. Courtney, I LOVE everything you write. I often say that I should be more like you and speak out about what I believe. I just never make the time to figure out how to really function in the blogging world. As I read your post I was shocked, to say the least. I am 50 years old and pretty naieve(sp) I, like you, want to believe that people are good and kind. I am so sorry for the hurts that you have endured. While I was reading your post a New Testament scripture came to my mind. It is 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love and of a sound mind.” I LOVE this scripture and it has brought me comfort many times in my life and marriage and mothering journey. You do have power, and I feel that you are being a very strong influence for good to many of Heavenly Fathers choice daughters who read your messages of light, faith, strength and hope. I love you and all that you represent. You are in my prayers! Thank you for ALL that you have taught me over several years of reading your blog. YOU, unlike your rude commentors, KNOW WHO YOU ARE AND WHAT IS TRULY MOST IMPORTANT IN THIS JOURNEY OF LIFE!!!! THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!!
    With lots of sisterly love,
    Shelly

  36. Dear Courtney,
    I just want you to know what a blessing you’ve been to me.
    You are doing an amazing work for Jesus. Don’t ever
    allow the evil one to tell you different. When my son was
    in 6th grade, my husband and I pulled him out to homeschool
    him. That was 4 years ago. He’s now back in public school, but what a great gift to homeschool! I remember stumbling across
    your site when I was looking up videos for homeschooling since it
    was so new to us. I totally believe God led me to your
    site. You probably don’t remember, but I emailed you about curriculum and
    you responded back. You were so helpful. Thank you! Thank you for
    being a clear voice of Jesus to those in this dark world who need
    to hear of his love and grace. I remember reading those very hurtful comments that
    those people would write to you. I would pray for you. It is a spiritual warfare no doubt.
    Keep up the great work. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9
    Love in Jesus and praying for you and your family,
    Julie

  37. I truly enjoy watching your videos & reading your posts. Please do not be discouraged by the negative feedback people give you. Let it strengthen you to continue on. Thank you for all you do for your readers.

  38. I can’t imagine receiving such hatefull and sometimes hate filled emails. I would be so hurt and if I am truthful very angry. I imagine that I would probably respond to some of them in ways that I should not. You have an audience that you are reaching. Socieity does not want to hear the truth. They want to hear that it doesn’t matter what you believe that we are all basically good people. Many women don’t want to hear the truth about being women and mothers and for those like myself, housewives. My place is really in the home even though we dont’ have children. We don’t want to hear that.

    Keep up the good work and we will be praying for you.

  39. Courtney, you must be doing something right! The world loves their own.. Proclaim the truth from the Bible and people will hate you! It’s God they hate, and His Word! and it’s What God say’s, that offends its His Words not yours!
    Look at how they mocked Noah, ” look at that silly old fool building that ark”
    Noah a righteous man loved God and obeyed Him, and was safe inside the ark with his family when God shut the door (picture of salvation)
    Then came the floods, just as God had said.
    Noah had warned them and they didn’t listen, then it was too late!
    My Dad has never been shy of telling the gospel to people he meets, I’ve seen him witness to bank tellers in our home, folk on vacation. Normally, when witnessing at work he didn’t have too much backlash, maybe a little teasing!
    But one guy one time said to him- you know what I can’t stand all of you Christians, if I could I’d have you all sent out on a big ship out to sea and blown up! See what they’d do to us if they could the bible tells us this!
    We must keep standing strong and endure to the end!
    We are living in the last days!

    Just to end on a much lighter note – let’s all keep on smiling! 🙂 🙂 🙂 We as Christians should be the happiest people on the planet. We have a lot to be happy about! I think it’s a good witness to the world! 🙂 :-):-)

  40. Courtney, God bless you and encourage and strengthen you with His Power and Strength. God uses our weak to show how Strong He is. For the past four years God placed me in circumstances where I was an outcast, I was ignored and avoided, by all, by some more than others and at different times. Now I look back at that desperate time in my life with thanksgiving, because I see that Lord allowed it to happen so I can learn to relay only on Him. It says in the Old Testament that cursed is he who relays on a man, so by hard lesson I learned that it’s more beneficial to be kind and bless those who hurt me, and look up to Jesus for everything than dwell on the bitterness of the situation. You are a blessing to me. Stay true to Him matter what!

  41. Courtney, I’ve been blessed by reading your blog. God is using you. I’m a MOPS mentor and I’ve passed along your blog to lots of young mothers that have been encouraged by words that The Lord has placed on your heart to share with others. Don’t give up or give in. Stand firm and know that you are doing what God would have you to do at this season of your life. One question I have for you-why do you hold on to these negative comments? Let them go-press the delete button. 🙂

    1. Good question! I have spoken at 2 blogging conferences on the topic of “How to Handle Criticism” and have guest posted around the blog-o-sphere on this topic (and one radio program). So since other bloggers need encouragement in this area to “keep on going” despite the criticism, I started saving a few to use as examples. If I encourage others to love and forgive and be kind…they might say – but you have NO idea what this person said to me. They may assume that I have never faced the harsh criticism they are facing. Through sharing these – I hope that others will know that I’m in the same boat and living this out in my own life. I have been accused of leading a “perfect” life, so sometimes we have to share the hurts so others know that I’m a real flesh and blood person.

      The majority of critical comments and emails I receive –I immediately hit delete on and forget about. But every now and then I keep one to use as an example. To be honest – I had one that is crazy scary/creepy that I deleted from this post. I’m not sure people can even imagine how bad comments can get – but these were a good sampling. 😉 I also didn’t scratch the surface on the number of times I’ve been impersonated on-line by creeps –such a headache to deal with twitter and facebook to get these people removed. And then there’s other bloggers who write mean things about me – that’s fun!

      So all that to say – I’m not really holding on to these things – they are more just a “small sampling” of what I face on a regular basis as a Christian blogger. I hope it inspires. 😉

      Lots of Love,
      Courtney

      1. Thanks for sharing. I’m glad you only keep a sampling to show you are real 🙂 and not everything. As far as on-line impersonation goes, I guess that comes with the territory of being a famous blogger in our tech savvy world :). I just think all the mean comments come from them seeing The Light in you and being jealous of it and maybe not knowing that that is what they are really jealous of. John 15:18-20 from The Message puts it great. “If you find the godless world is hating you, remember it got its start hating me. If you lived on the world’s terms, the world would love you as one of its own. But since I picked you to live on God’s terms and no longer on the world’s terms, the world is going to hate you……..If they beat on me, they will certainly beat on you…..” Keep up the good work Courtney. You’re doing a good job for The Lord.

  42. Courtney, that was so incredibly hard to read those terrible words that have been thrown at you!! It hurt me so much as I so enjoy your blog and I just wonder…why do they keep reading it or keep coming back?? Such personal vicious words when they do not even know you or your family. It just has to be part of the spiritual warfare you obviously are reaching many people in a wonderful way for the kingdom of God and Satan is panicking and trying to get to you. I love your response on how to deal with this….so inspiring!! Please keep doing what you are doing – and with that beautiful smile! It blesses so many people!!!

  43. Courtney,YOU ARE AWESOME!!! Your emails and blog are so encouraging. The devil seeks ways to “kill, steal and destory” everything God has His hand in. Stand firm, pray for strength and continue on God’s path for you!

  44. I call what those people have written to you “keyboard courage”. I highly doubt they’d say that to your face in person because you have such an engaging smile. I’ve had the privilege of meeting Courtney in person when I attended the Women Living Well conference at her church last year. She’s JUST as bubbly in person as she appears on the blog so it’s not an act, I can tell you that 🙂 It’s definitely not fake either! I’ve met some people who put on a fake persona when they’re in public and you can just tell that is not their real personality and I HATE that! Courtney is not like this at all! Her love of people and love of Jesus shines through in EVERYTHING she does!!

    I’m glad you can let their hate roll off your back. It’s obvious that they do not know Jesus. I’m also very thankful that Courtney has not let these people deter her from continuing to blog. It’s helped me IMMENSELY in my walk with Christ. So Thank YOU dear Courtney! I pray for you daily! Have a blessed day!

  45. How miserable and despairing those people must be to post comments spewing such foul words. It’s really sad because if they could turn to Jesus, the One they are really opposing, they could leave their darkness and live in the light.

  46. You’ve got guts, girl! I commend you for your boldness in sharing the truth, and in being open about the hateful criticism you have received. You are a blessing. <3

  47. I know for each negative comment you recieve there are so many more people that are being blessed by your ministry. Keep up the good work and take those negative comments as a sign that you are doing the right thing by spreading the Good News of Jesus. Also, as a positive note, even though they are criticizing, obviously they are also listening and reading what you say. So, they are hearing God’s word through you whether they like it or not. Paul was one of the worst persecuters of Christianity before he came to know Christ, and then he became one of the greatest apostles and wrote a huge portion of the New Testament. People can change by hearing God’s Word. Keep being obedient to God. We are praying for you.

  48. Thank you for your honesty….this is very brave and it confirms the need for all of us whom stand on the truth of the living word to press forward and communicate the truths we know and not compromise …..your courage is refreshing and strengthens my resolve to continue writing for His Glory.

    Be Blessed

    Shameka

  49. Oh, sweet Courtney, I am praying for you. This battle is not against flesh and blood. Keep grabbing hold of the truth and cast down every thought that lifts itself up against our God. He will continue to carry you. Thank you for your ministry and all you are doing. You are a blessing. HUGS!!!! Keep pressing on and into Him!

  50. Continued blessings to you, Dear Courtney. Glory and honor and praise to Him.

    Your sister in Christ,
    Cindy

  51. Hi Courtney,

    I just wanted to encourage you right where you are. Obviously, you’ve learned to keep pressing on through all the muck and mire of a few others thoughts of you, and to deflect them w truth, and my encouragement is JUST that. To remember how the enemy works, taking what is truth and twisting it, perverting it.

    I actually found out what your giftings ARE more clearly through those opposed to you! Courtney’s giftings; :)…..believing the Word of God 100%, representing and shedding light on how males and females were created to be with one another and their God, making great choices with her children in how they are being raised, and one who was gifted with an infectious smile that radiates joy, love, and SINCERITY…..and I’m sure there are many more. Just remember that truth whenever insecurities and doubts begin to take form in those areas (as they usually do even though we KNOW the truth ;).

    Blessings to you and your good works, dear sister,

    Rebecca

  52. Oh! Almost forgot! One of my favorite encouraging scriptures that popped into mind as I was reading through some of those destroying comments; “Our lives are a fragrance presented by Christ to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those being saved and by those perishing. To those who are perishing we are a fearful smell of death and doom. But to those being saved we are a life-giving perfume.” 2Corinthians 2:15-16 NLT Keep your fragrance! 🙂

    Rebecca

  53. How incredibly sad that women are so mean to each other. Words do hurt. So guard your heart from the nasty ugly words that are thrown at you. I teach yoga and center my class on gratitude. My most critical group of students I teach are those at the Christian Community Center where I belong. It’s a health club connected with the church. You would think this would be a safe place with no judgement, but it’s the harshest environment I have yet to encounter. I will not teach there regularly, but only sub a class here and there. How sad that a Christ centered community center is such a negative critical place.

  54. Hi! I am guessing you will be inundated with positive reinforcement today. I hope so anyways. Thank you for posting a few of the negative comments you receive. As hard as it is to read these, I appreciate it as we tend to forget what a sacrifice it is for you to blog about your life where whoever can read, and comment, about your lifestyle. It really opened up my eyes and I wanted to say a huge thank you for all that you do. God has given you a gift and I know your ministry will blossom in His Hands. Thank you again! Hugs to you through all of the awful comments people feel they must post. Be Bold! Be Strong! For The Lord Our God is with you!

  55. You are a light in the darkness. Keep on “living well”. I am reading your book right now and I am enjoying it so much and am so blessed by it. Keep shining your light.

  56. Thank you for this series. It is very timely and I know I don’t share even a fraction as much as I should. I worry how much our culture has changed my view of what is acceptable and how to be loving in a world filled with nonbelievers. But you are on the front line every time you publish and I appreciate you pouring out your heart to us. I am sure those hateful comments are hard to get past some days, but it would be more worrisome if you never got hate mail. Because if that were the case, what you are saying isn’t threatening to satan. I will pray for you to continue to speak boldly and that what you are saying might somehow plant a seed that the Holy Spirit can turn into real fruit in someone out there!

  57. Hi Courtney- Thanks for the post! There are several blogs that I used to love that I don’t frequent as often, because their comments on the blog and on facebook are always so negative!! One blogger that I really admire is Lisa Leake from http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/. She came up with a comment policy (http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/comment-policy/) and occasionally reminds readers about her guidelines. It has helped immensely to create a positive atmosphere on her blog and on social media outlets. I’m starting a blog and will also have a comment policy. It might be a good idea for you, too, if you don’t already have one in place!

  58. It is so difficult to pray for those who persecute us. I’m afraid I quickly get into the human and unholy habit of thinking, “They’ll get what they deserve,” and feeling self-righteous. Oh how wrong that is! And despicable in God’s eyes. Thanks for the reminder as I begin my work-week in the midst of folks who don’t love Jesus.

  59. I love you Courtney and I love your work. I love what you stand for and how you work to encourage us (other women that strive to follow Jesus daily) every day. I’m sorry for all of those horrible words that you have to read. I just don’t understand why they choose to say anything to you if they hate you so much. It blows my mind. But thank you for showing us how to respond to this type of hatred and evil. You are a wonderful person. Continue to hear God whispering to your heart. He is all that matters!
    <3 🙂

  60. Wow – sounds like some really jealous people out there! Those words are ugly and full of jealousy. You are a beautiful women inside and out and an excellent role model to other women who strive to be good wives and mothers. Keep on doing what you are doing in life. You are a blessing to many women.

  61. This was a Beautiful Post, Courtney! Thank You. I’m very Grateful for this site and all that you so generously share. For the record, I look forward to your Beautiful Smile. It’s a pleasure to see, a breath of Fresh Air and as I’ve said on this blog before, your smile is contagious! Thank You. Patty

  62. Oh Courtney! You are highly favoured with the Lord! You are fearfully and wonderfully made! YOU are a blessing to us believers and followers in Christ. Big virtual hugs. You are a light in this world! Keep up the awesome work you do for us ladies. And thank you for being so bold and honest in everything you do!

  63. This was honestly something that I view as something the Lord has used to speak to me with directly today. I just had an encounter with this with my brother, and I started to allow myself to become riled up. The issues between my sibling and I are ongoing, and I don’t know that they will ever resolve themselves. However, seeing things like this just helps me to take a step back and remember to respond to the situation with love. My brother came to me in order to find a way to hurt me, but I won’t let his venom become a wedge between myself and the Lord. Thank you for this.

  64. Dear Courtney,
    I was just having a conversation about this with a good friend last Friday! Not about blogging but wanting to please others and compromise my faith in doing so! At first glance it seems like a “strong” Chrstian wouldn’t have any enemies, because they are so “good”. But that’s wrong thinking! It feels like I have failed Christ if I accidentally offend others while being “Christ like”, but then I’m reminded of how Paul was run out of cities, the desciples were killed, and Jesus was despised and hated. You would think that would give me courage and strength to be bold in love and truth! Thanks for posting this series! It is another reminder to stand firm on the foundation of Jesus Christ but speak truth in love! It’s not a stain on my heart it means that God is more important to follow than other peoples ideas! If it comes down to either pleasing Jesus or other people I want to choose Jesus every time!

  65. Dear Courtney,
    I have been a devoted reader of your blog for some time now and whilst I don’t often post, I felt compelled to comment this morning. I felt saddened to read those hurtful comments directed at you and what upset me most, were those who attacked your personal appearance and attitude. You have inspired me on dark days when I just felt lost in my role as a wife and mother of 2 home schooled children. Seeing your radiant smiling face on your videos and hearing your uplifting voice talking about the Lord and family helps to propel me to be the woman the Lord wants me to be.
    I pray that our Lord shines down on you each and everyday. I pray that our Lord provides you with strength and resilience to no longer fear those who reject and mock you. God bless you Courtney.

  66. When people make such horrible comments it’s usually because they are insecure with themselves. In some warped way making others feel terrible makes them feel better. I know…strange. I once had a friend say all kinds of horrible things to me for no apparent reason. (I asked her many times what I did to make her so angry but she never came up with examples) I had to let it and our friendship go. Negativity has no place in my life. Even after my “friend” tried to apologize it was too late. Some things can’t be taken back because they are too hurtful.

  67. I’ve been quiet so long, I’m not sure how to be bold, or confident. I want to love everyone…because honestly it is too easy to judge for me. I used to sit and pound out words onto my Facebook feed, causing a huge ruffling of feathers, angry words, and lost friendships. It’s been over a year since I’ve been silent, and keeping to positive things.
    I’m scared…and I don’t know why.
    Inside, I feel the passion and boldness, dying to come out.
    But I don’t know how to mix truth WITH LOVE.

    Peggy

  68. Courtney, We are the apple of God’s eye, the salt of the earth & a light in dark world – We gotta keep on shining!! I’m thankful for you & all the kind words that have been shared with you today. We serve a might God & I pray he showers blessings & Holy Boldness on you & each person who has commented here today. God’s word will NOT return void but it must be sent out!! Love you!!

  69. I love your blog and your videos and I think you are beautiful. I would love to know you in person! Keep looking up to Jesus!! Hugs!

  70. Courtney, you have a lot of support and most importantly our Lord is for you. Press on precious sister. May The Lord cover you and minister to you during this time. I am praying for your “Truth in Love” messages to go far and wide, even reaching into the hardest or hearts. I too find myself in front of the firing squad.. I have had many people who are like “walking talking punches in the stomach” confront me. I love them just as Jesus has commanded. I know you will too!

  71. I feel saddened that some people in this world feel it is necessary to be so unkind. I am sorry that you have to deal with these types of comments on an ongoing basis. I am continually encouraged by your words. Don’t let this small minority affect your kind heart.

  72. I don’t know how you are still standing after all those insults but they are immensely wrong. I, too, consider you my friend. You have been such an encouragement to me, and I dare say that your encouragement has and will continue to have a great impact on my relationship with my husband. I came into my second marriage to my godly husband very scarred, not knowing the first thing about how to have a healthy, godly relationship with a man. YOU have been a mentor to me. YOU are responsible for a lot of good fruit in our marriage. Our marriage is thriving, strong and secure and it is because of Christ being extended to me through people like you. THANK YOU!
    Amanda

  73. Courtney,
    I feel truly hurt for you that you have had this experience with those ugly, hateful comments. I would be disturbed and upset for weeks too. But I want you to know that the Lord is using you. Your blog and the joyful spirit you have encourages me and helps me see that I’m not alone. It has also opened my eyes to scripture and service to God. Thank you for all you do and keep the faith. The work we do for the Lord is never in vain.
    Emily

  74. Courtney, you have been a great inspiration to me. I can’t even fathom how people can be so cruel. I have had to deal with negative comments about me and my husband who’s a pastor. It is so easy to want to shrink into silence and stop all dealings with those people but thanks for the reminder to instead respond with kindness and keep heaping on the love!

    Thank you for your ministry and your willingness to share your faith and life. I have truly been inspired, challenged, and encouraged since I found your blog a couple of years ago. “Keep fighting the good fight!”

  75. Thank you for sharing your trials and stories, they do nothing but encourage and uplift! 🙂 It’s so great to hear how others are struggling, so that you don’t feel so alone but importantly what you also do is share verses from scripture to will boost and raise spirits! You’re tough! and that’s why God appointed you to do the hard work, something that not many of us can say we’re going. So thanks for that! I want to be as bold as you, but I’m still trying to find the courage. 🙂 PS-not sure if you saw God’s Not Dead in theaters, but there’s another young man with courage!

    Reading from Jersey…

  76. Courtney i wrote my first comment when.i first open your email because of the encouragement word you put first and then i comment and then read the rest of the newsletteri uad someone say something to me today and when i open your email and saw the white letters witg the blue backgroung it was such and encouragement i just had to write you and say thank you but i went back and read your newsletter and oh i was hurt to read all those awful comments people has say to you!! It hurt me soo i umagine how it hurt you. Im soo sorry my heart hurtedbjust to read that evil stuff but i remember that they are not flesh and blood but evil spirits in the spiritual realm and i capture how satan would used all this people in darkness to come say such evil stuff to you. I know people wrote this but i felt in my spirit it was more than that. May God bless you andvheals you from those hurtful word and just know you are a great encouragement to the women community. :)Be bless.

  77. You have changed my life! I hope you know how many of us that you have made such a big impact on and don’t let any of those negative comments get to you. They listened to you or read something of yours to be able to say that so it seems they are at elegant trying to find God. Maybe it’s an immediate negative response, but I pray that they take your words and remember them throughout life, maybe God will continue to put them in their head and they will find Him, they will know Him some through your ministry even if they did initially have negative things to say. I love you because of what you have done for me, I hope that outweighs any negativeness that comes your way!

  78. Thank you Courtney for taking a stand and speaking the truth! The world today does not want the truth and do not want to hear the name of Jesus. Thank you for being an encouragement to women, for being a light in a sin darkened world and for speaking so boldly! Also love your positive attitude, even when you are attacked. May God bless you for the lives you have touched. 🙂

  79. WOW! A great read! I totally agree with everything you said. As someone who is new to the blog world this was a great reminder that a little discouragement should not stop me from doing what I feel the Lord has called me to. God Bless you!
    P.S.
    I found you via Mistyleask.com
    Thank you for hosting the link up today!

  80. This post breaks my heart because of the brokenness and love our world needs. I am so thankful for your boldness and obedience to God, and my heart hurts for the horrible things people have said, not just for you, but for them too. You are so right about how easy it is to talk tall and be braver on the internet, and it gets both “sides” in trouble, and in the end there’s no winner. At the end it is our love and mercy, just as you’ve said, that shines through. Lord knows that love and mercy does not come from our own power, but His alone. Thank you for your boldness and continued obedience. Your truth strengthens so many for us. You are a beautiful woman regardless of what anyone says, but the most beautiful part about you is your tender heart, submitted to God.

  81. Hi Courtney! 🙂 You are doing a great job. I love reading ur blogs and watching youtube videos. Keep them coming! You are a blessing. I know many of my close fnds also enjoy ur blogs .am living in US now but am from India…Your ministry was a blessing even while I was in India.
    God bless you and family. Hugss

  82. Courtney, as I sat down to read your latest article, I was prompted by the Holy Spirit to pray for and show kindness to someone who calls me the names you listed above on a regular basis. Your heart for Jesus is revealed in everything you post! Thank you for your encouraging words and truth in love! I can’t wait to sit with you in heaven and chat! Love you girl! You are beautiful inside and out! I know you will continue until Jesus returns and know you are not alone! Love in Christ, Jamie

  83. The enemy gets a foothold by creating fear. I am sure this isn’t why you have stoppped writing for GMG but rather your own ministry taking off…..I hope. I know you are prayerful for your haters. Words can be damaging but we have truth. We have Christ. We need nothing else. I think of the missionaries literally punished for their following of Christ, and I am reminded I can take some verbal assaults from “anonymous” blog-o-sphere haters. Allowing them to speak to your heart is allowing the enemy to create fear within you. We live in freedom in Christ. Your ministry has strengthened my marriage and my journey of motherhood. Now that’s where we belong in our walk with the king! You’ll be missed at GMG – I LOVE the Bible studies you guys create for us.

  84. Dear Courtney,

    This is my first time writing. I am an older woman…58 years old. I am married (37 years) to a godly man, raised my (Christian-29 year old married) son and owned my own Architecture business inside my home. Even though I have belonged to Our Lord, Jesus Christ since 8 years old, I would love to have chosen exactly what you and your husband chose for your family. You bring such honor and glory to Jesus in your lifestyle choices! Thank you for investing your time, energy, and love into women. Thank you for your boldness…I know He gives it to you; but you act on it. 🙂 Thank you for inspiring your generation of women and generations to come just by being who you are in Christ! Thank you for being courageous in your stand for Christ!
    Now I am retired and enjoy mentoring (Titus 2) women, helping them to adapt lifestyles as you have chosen to do. Over and over again I find that at the deepest part of their hearts, they desire to be full time Christ followers, wives, mothers, and friends!
    The nasty comments that you have received must be extremely painful!! From one woman to another, I feel sorry for those hurtful words aimed to destroy what God is doing. Spiritual warfare can be exhausting, painful. Praise the Lord that we don’t fight alone AND praise Him, too, that we have already won the battle! Those “thinking” that you are their target are regretfully hurling insults at Our Lord. Thank you for your articles, the faith that you have and been diligent to develop, your love, grace, mercy, and compassion in your answers to them. They really “know not what they do.”

  85. Wow. You are amazing. I am 14 years old, and i have a few people in my life who hate me and cuss at me because i speak openly about Christ. Someone even told me i needed to be slapped too. They think they are hurting us, but we as Christians just benefit and grow in our faith in Jesus Christ. I have always found it hard to love them, but this website page has really helped me learn to love them. Thank You!!! I always refer to those verses. (Luke 6:28). Thanks again!!!

  86. Always so amazed that others take the time to be so nasty. If others do not believe/appreciate what you are saying, why do they follow your blog or read or watch? I don’t understand how folks who wrote those comments would be the very first to say that Christians are intolerant! 🙂 Praying blessings for your and your family as we enter the Easter season where we can focus on Christ’s resurrection and all that His death and life give us. Thank you for continuing to promote God’s word, no matter what the “world” says.

  87. Just getting to read this- and I have faced these things, both “INRL” and blogging. Thank you for standing for what is right. You are loved- by God and by me my friend! <3 Mandy

  88. I love your blog, and even though I don’t always agree 100% with everything you say, I think you are making such a difference. Your blog was a piece of the puzzle which led me to God two years ago. Bless you.

  89. Dear Courtney
    I have been so blessed by your blog and have so enjoyed the GMG bible studies .
    I think you are beautiful inside and out.
    Thank you for the time and energy you give to all of us.
    Happy Easter
    SLS
    PS: I am a dental hygienist and think you have a healthy beautiful smile. I know so many people wish that could have your great smile.

  90. Always remember that it’s not YOU they are hating, it’s THE MESSAGE. Jesus said we would face persecution, and we will. In the end, God will be victorious. Every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Amen!

  91. This is the first time I have written a comment. Just wanted to let you know that you have been a blessing in my life. Through your blog and Good Morning Girls I have been able to dig deeper into the word. Please do not stop and remember that it is not going to be easy. It was not easy for Jesus either.
    Thanks for all you do and for sharing the word so selflessly.
    God bless you and your family.

  92. “Be kinder than you feel.” Nailed it! I mean, that applies all over the place as followers of Christ! I don’t currently struggle with negative labels, but man – that really hits me as a wife and mom right now. Thank you!

  93. Courtney,
    I haven’t read down through all of the previous comments due to lack of time. I have read your blog for years, on and off, for lack of time. 🙂 Love this series. SO MUCH. Just wanted to encourage you to keep speaking the truth in love. My heart literally hurts after reading negative comments that others have sent you. Please continue being a voice in this generation. We know it is not flesh and blood we wrestle against but that does not mean others comments aren’t painful and hurtful. Please don’t let the attacks silence you dear Sister in Christ. Prayers for peace that passes all understanding as you thrust Him. (((hugs)) ~Emily

  94. For every insulting comment you receive, I’m sure you receive a thousand from those whose lives have been genuinely and irrevocably changed and edified by you. Your courage is immensely inspiring, and I hope you will never ever stop speaking out the truth in love. Thank you.

  95. Hi Courtney,
    From reading thr negative comments l am saddened by their words, because one speaks from what is in their heart and also their attacks are not against you directly, but Christ within you. “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. ” Remember to “guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Say as Christ did from the cross ” Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” As Iam writing this tears are falling from my eyes…
    Love, Rosalyn

  96. Hey Courtney, I have not read your blog for some time, I must confess that I have fallen more and more away from my walk with the Lord as I have become more and more focused on myself and my career in the art world.
    I thought God was blessing me in it, I had reached all my goals for the year, even had my first gallery show lined up, and then one day a few days ago in fact it all came tumbling down.
    This person that has ‘stalked/harassed’ me for unknown reasons online for 2 years on June 4th to be exact, somehow managed to integrate herself into somewhere I thought was safe, somewhere I finally considered that I had great friends among other artists, and we had this gallery show lined up together. Anyways long story short, I was an admin even to this certain group of artists, I helped daily with inspiring them, uplifting them, and worked tirelessly behind the scenes of the group to make different things run smoothly, one being the gallery show.
    Out of nowhere the other day, the founder of the group, whom I considered one of my best friends just turned on me, I could not get a direct answer out of her and continued to question her intentions, to which she ended up blocking and removing me from my group that had basically consumed my whole attention the past few months. Thus taking away also my first gallery showing for my art since it was with this certain group.
    I was devastated to find out by a few others that it involved this person that has been stalking me, trying to ruin my name and career for years. When I thought I had found that ‘safe place’ finally and trusted friends, and let me guard down, the enemy was able to sneak in and blindside me in the worst way.
    I suffered an extreme mental breakdown, and am now recovering from it. It might seem such a silly matter to some but I had totally lost focus on what REALLY mattered in my life; my walk with God, giving him the glory for my achievements, and focusing on my family and walk with him. I can do all things through him that gives me strength, but I can do nothing by myself.
    I thought I would share that this post really helped me today, and to apply it to this situation in fact. See, I used to pray for her, and I stopped when I thought I was ‘safe’ and found a spot she couldn’t reach me. I have no clue why she does this to me, I have never met her in person, have never to my knowledge done anything to hurt her, but its unstopping as I have found out.
    So, I now am at my lowest, one day I felt I was on a mountain with my career and had reached all my dreams, and not 24 hours later I found myself having a mental breakdown and at the lowest point I have been in years.
    I am realizing as I reflect on the bible, myself, and what has happened that as much as I can blame her for this, I can blame myself as well for losing sight of what was really important; my walk with God. For stepping out of his protection and thinking that I had personally found somewhere safe and stopped praying for his help in the matter.
    Sorry this is so long, I guess it feels good to right about it, tell you that your article has helped me, and that you are not alone. I have received some of the worst emails, comments, pages made about me, ext ext and Im not even sure the WHY of it or the cause. But if people are going to say or do these things to you, then it is best they are doing it because you are speaking and sharing Gods word. I love how you handle it with such grace and thank you for sharing.
    God bless you

  97. God bless you! We must remember that the worldly are not able to understand spiritual truth. The one who rules their lives has blinded them to truth. Don’t let them bother you. You just keep smiling, praying, forgiving, offering mercy and help wherever needed and doing what you’re doing and most importantly, pray for these lost souls who are blinded to truth! Carry on sister!

  98. I Love This! I’ll admit, you amaze me with how perfect you are, and it can be a bit intimidating. However, I would love to know you in real life. This post shows a picture of your heart and I love it.

  99. The difference here is that you speak from a heart of kindness, love, and tolerance. They speak from the opposite. People may call you a bigot because of their preconceived notions about your beliefs, but in that same statement, they call themselves the same, because they do not accept you as you are. God-fearing, adoring, faithful, and in love with the Father.

    I know this is an older post, but I want you to know, as well as other women out there, that you are loved. By your loyal readers, and by God Himself. Keep up with your ministry. You are doing God’s work, and with every comment that spits hate and disdain will come five more that radiates love and understanding. And another 30 readers who enjoy your ministry but don’t comment.

    Walk with God, sisters. Not with your shoulders slumped because of the hate of man, but with your head held high because of the love of the Father.

  100. So sad to read the hurtful remarks you have had to endure. You are such a beautiful and precious light in an otherwise very dark world. I still pray for you and your lovely family. There have been days when your message has been just what I needed to hear. Keep up the great work you are doing. So wonderful to get a glimpsen of Jesus in your sweet smile. I am blessed because of your faithfulness.

  101. I’m not sure if this comment will reach you, since this post was originally posted last year :/.

    I am 25 and I have had to deal with a lot of hate for being a Christian. I was a Christian the majority of my life and in college I slipped away from Christ and started to conform to this world. I finally got my soul back on track and now I am serving the Lord every single day and he is the center of my life.

    I have an amazing ability to attract atheists and I have tried to be kind to them and share the gospel without being overbearing or becoming judgmental. When I have had to stand my ground and say no on certain invitations like not coming to parties where there are excessive amount of alcohol and under age drinkers, and also I had to kindly refuse taking someone to an abortion clinic – I am BASHED!! I’ve been called so many names, I have had them use personal information that I had shared with them against me and it really has my spirit broken. I want to serve the Lord but sometimes it’s so incredibly hard and it’s a very lonely road especially being 25 and having next to none to call my friends. Do you have any advice for me?

    -thank you and God bless ?

  102. Courtney,

    You are such an inspiring woman of God and I am so thankful for your ministry! There are many days your words have brought encouragement and turned my day around!

  103. Oh what great example of strength in the Lord and spiritual warfare. These are times where a lot of our brothers and sisters in Christ will be pressured and dragged down by the negativity of others into the questioning of their faith, things like this will help encourage them to continue fighting the good fight. God will smile upon you soldier, I applaud you! God Bless

  104. You’re one amazing woman, God richly bless you! We are encountering a similar problem in Africa, though admittedly it pales in comparison to what you face in the Western world. Praying for your country. ?

  105. I was feeling very overwhelmed this week. Feeling attacked for my faith and what I believed to be true. I let it get to me and panicked without knowing why until I came across this article on my Pinterest page. Thank you so much. God bless.

  106. Today we are even fighting some of this ‘hating’ and ‘intolerant’ attitude toward those of us who don’t want to ‘follow the world’ and what’s acceptable to it, but just want to follow Christ. Who would have thought that would set up suck division within a church?!

    I guess it’s everywhere today….the political correctness of the age…just as the Bible told us it would be.

    Keep your head up and keep that beautiful smile coming!!!

  107. I not woman but keep up the great work. I found this article while doing a research paper for my Apologetic class. Part of it pertained to responding to some one who says,“My biggest problem with Christianity is, for one, that Christians seem so intolerant and judgmental.” Glad you brought out Luke 6:27-36. Just because we have to be “judgmental” to determine who our enemies are we still love them for they to still are made in God’s image. Also, sometimes Jesus was intolerant, John 2:13-22 He cleansed the temple the merchants and money changers. He wasn’t very tolerant of them. Do not stop shining His light in this world of darkness. He calls us the Light and Salt of the world.

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