To be told ‘I hate you’ or to say that to someone can bring distance in relationship and silence to conversation. If you are on the receiving end of that, you need to know, ‘there is always something behind the something’. Let’s not forget, hate left to its own devices corrodes the person that carries it. The only way to defeat hate is with love.
It’s always easy to say something hurtful in retaliation. We all know that’s not right. No matter how hurtful someone is, bring the pain you feel to Jesus in prayer and ask Him to fill you with the love you need to show mercy.
1 Corinthians 13:5-6 says, ‘It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.’ (NIV) The power of love.
Quote
Retaliating to hate with hate, allows hate to work longer.
Prayer
Help me Lord to show love through pain, that Love would conquer the hurt of any disagreement. Amen.
Action Point
Defusing the fall out of a hateful argument is good. Sending an ‘Are you OK’ text, email or card can often help both parties talk about what’s really going on.
Copyright notices
(NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Use in other publications.
You can freely use this devotional personally, in your Church or Ministry when including this notice. Copyright © Carl Brettle. Subscribe for free via www.imani.org
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