Division

Jesus said,

“Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword. I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. Your enemies will be right in your own household!’’ – Matthew 10: 34-36

Until I started walking seriously along the spiritual path, every time I read this, I felt troubled because before then, I just did not understand how Jesus could say such a thing. However, as my walk progressed further, I began to understand what Jesus was saying.

My mother, though a stalwart of the church, thought that I was going crazy as I would be on my bed waist deep in different translations of the bible, a myriad of books, journals and notebooks with my laptop somewhere in the mix. 

It’s not that she turned against me in such a manner as to sever ties, but it was causing division, as she looked on at my "madness" trying to comprehend what was happening to her daughter. I imagine that perhaps her Christian walk led her down a gentler path, whereas mine was intensely gruelling.

As time went by, she eventually came to terms with the way I was being schooled by Spirit and appreciated my spiritual perspective.

I know that some persons traversing the Christian path are not so fortunate; their families neither understand nor care to understand their journey.

The Amplified Bible says that it is a sword of division between belief and unbelief. People have gravely severed ties with family members because of their differing beliefs.

The Christian walk is not one of a cherry blossom laden path, where birds are chirping happy tunes and people are skipping along cheerily. In his second letter to Timothy, Paul wrote,

Indeed, all who delight in pursuing righteousness and are determined to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be hunted and persecuted [because of their faith]. – 2 Timothy 3:12 (AMP)

Beloved, becoming a Christian may bring you peace of mind but it doesn’t always bring peace so, don’t be surprised when you experience conflict every now and then. During these times of tug o’ war it’s important for you to keep in mind that Jesus Himself said that trusting Him, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world. (John 16:33 MSG)

Living at odds with close relatives in a divided house is not easy; their verbal abuse, insults and ridicule because of your faith, hurt endlessly and trying to keep your cool under the pressure cuts like a newly sharpened knife but take heart, pray and stand firm in your belief. Jesus is the only one who can heal the pain and if it is to be, heal the division.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “Division” ©2026, January 15, 2026