The Power of “No”

Rejection is part of life. I have definitely had my share of it. Whether it be familial, in friendships, and even from the outside world, it can either make or break you. Let’s face it…it’s effects are up to us. We can live a guarded life out of our fear of rejection or take steps of faith and allow God to blindly guide us. I’ve been on both sides of the track especially when it comes to relationships. I’ve become guarded and a hermit because I didn’t want to connect with others due to past rejection. Yet, the calling God has placed on my life doesn’t allow for that type of lifestyle.

Although the sting of “No” has panged me several times, I have had to decide to trust the Lord and step out of my comfort zone. I’ve had to go places and be around people the Lord has led me to in spite of my fear of being rejected. There are several examples of Jesus being rejected in the Bible. In fact, John 1: 11 states, “He came unto His own, and his own received Him not”. What? His kin? Those who were familiar with Him rejected Him? I’ve been there myself and it can be a difficult place to be. However, the next verses, John 1:12-13 says, “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name:¹³ Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God”.

You see the “No” He received from man led to Him continuing by faith in His father to complete His assignment. Likewise, those who said,”Yes” received the gift of salvation. This tells me that our ability to press forward in the face of rejection can lead to greater things. Greater things not only for us but those we come in contact with. Obedience yields multifaceted manifested blessings. In addition, I believe that Jesus’ faith and desire to complete His work grew as result of every “No” He received.

He knew the Father’s heart. He knew that, “For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us”(2 Corinthians 1:20). Jesus knew, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible”(Matthew 19:26). God wants us to have the same assurance so we can continue in the midst of rejection.

Think about the many great men and women who’ve gone on to do great things in the world after receiving plenty of No-s. There are alot of things that would not even exist had not someone had the courage to persevere past rejection. “No” is necessary to build our character and our faith. It has the power to position us for our purpose and propel us into wholeness. The word “No” is part of the all things that are working for our good.

Let me end on this note. Press forward! No cannot stop you unless you allow it to. You must decide whether to let “No” build or kill your dreams. There is great power in “No”. What will you do with yours?