In the journey of life, we find ourselves accompanied by an interesting cast of characters: our supporters and our haters. Both play critical roles, and—if we are wise—we will come to understand how God uses each to shape, refine, and strengthen us. Embracing the role of supporters is often easy because they encourage us, lift us up, and remind us of our worth. However, the idea that “haters” are a necessary part of our path can be a harder truth to accept.

Yet, every person we encounter can become a tool in God’s hand. Each helps to mold us into the individuals we are meant to be.

The Power of Supporters

Supporters are the people who recognize the goodness within us and genuinely want to see us succeed. They are the friends, mentors, family members, and even strangers who cheer us on, pray for us, and believe in our dreams. These are the people who help restore our confidence when we are down. They remind us of our gifts and encourage us to push forward when we feel like giving up.

God places these people in our lives as a way of reassuring us that we are not alone. They provide emotional and spiritual sustenance and sometimes even physical help when we need it most. They serve as reminders that we are seen and loved, that our efforts are noticed, and that our journey has meaning. Often, these supporters are the ones who help us dream bigger. They push us to see farther as well as trust in the gifts we have been given.

The Role of Haters

Now, as much as we would like a life filled only with supporters, the reality is that haters are inevitable. These are the individuals who may criticize, discourage, or even undermine us. Sometimes, they do so out of their own insecurities or frustrations, but regardless of their reasons, their actions can test our resolve and nudge us into uncomfortable places.

Here is the beautiful part: God can use even our haters for our good. Sometimes, their criticism forces us to examine our weaknesses and grow. Other times, their doubt pushes us to work harder, refine our skills, and even deepen our faith. Haters challenge us to remain humble. I know that mine have also kept my ego in check at times. As such, I have learned the art of resilience. Rather than allowing them to drain our energy, we can view them as part of our journey—a necessary friction that ultimately helps us shine.

Lessons of Refinement

1. Resilience: Every encounter with negativity is an opportunity to strengthen our resilience. Life will throw curveballs, and people will doubt us, but learning to stay focused on our path builds a strength that only trials can forge.
2. Self-Reflection: Supporters can highlight our strengths, but sometimes haters spotlight the areas where we might still need work. Their criticism, although painful, can prompt self-reflection and give us a chance to grow in ways we had not considered.
3. Humility and Compassion: Facing hate with grace forces us to develop humility and compassion. It teaches us to understand that often, hurt people hurt people. It is unfortunate, but they do. However, learning not to let our hearts harden in response to negativity builds compassion and empathy. It helps us to love even those who do not wish us well.
4. Faith and Dependence on God: Both supporters and haters teach us the importance of depending on God over the opinions of others. The support feels wonderful, and the criticism can sting, but we learn to stand firm in who we are by aligning ourselves with God’s purpose rather than the world’s judgment.

Embracing the Process

We are always being refined, and God uses both love and adversity to shape us. When we embrace this truth, we stop viewing life’s critics as enemies and start seeing them as tools in God’s hands. The next time you encounter a hater, pause and ask yourself, “What can I learn from this? How can this help me grow?” Then, when you encounter a supporter, take the time to savor their encouragement and let it nourish your spirit.

In the end, supporters and haters are all part of a bigger, divine plan. We should be grateful for each person we encounter, knowing they ALL serve a purpose. As we learn to navigate this balance, we will find ourselves growing stronger, wiser, and more centered in who we truly are.

Learning to love regardless,

Erika