Reactions or rejections?

I have to say that coming back to my Christian faith has been one of the most wonderfuly experiences that last few years, but also has presented some things issues. I am not suggesting that all the things have been bad, but it has provided me with a challenge. Many years ago, I had given up on Christ in my life, thinking it would be easier to follow my own path rather than what He has planned. Little did I know how difficult that would be. It was such a great experience to come back a few years ago, coming back to His word and seeing how I could live to bring joy. I guess the challenge lies in other peoples expectations of me. I love how He so clearly lays out for me how to live, but when people expect me to act a certain way, dress a certain way, etc, that makes it a little more challenging. The people who truly care about me have come around to see the positive change in me, and some of them have even come around to Christ, which as awesome experience. It's still tough to see some of the reactions I have gotten, mostly because they are rejecting God's word. How have others handled this type of reaction to their change or the rejection of God's word?

Change

For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit. (1 Thessalonians 4:7-8)

A holy life! What a wonderful calling, a beautiful way to live. :) I wish I could be so perfect as to say that this was true for me, but only know that I can continue to live and work to become more able in that way. God shows and tells us how to live a pure and perfect life, He has left us the scriptures and guidance, so there is no question about what we do. We all know how to do. My walk is continuous, and I find that it is such a great and beautiful thing! I know I have a lot to learn, but find myself becoming more peaceful, more filled with love and laughter! It is a great thing! One of my recent experiences was at Ash Wednesday services. I had gone up to receive my ashes from the pastor. When he was saying the blessing over me, there was this feeling of such pure peace, love, happiness. I was standing there, receiving this pure love straight from Him. It was great to walk down the street later in the middle of New York, with the cross of the Lord for all to see. It came in waves and I can only begin to hope that I can hold on to that feeling forever, even if I am not blessed with it again. I know God is there!