Hate is a Powerful Emotion

Warriors Arise: November 24, 2023

Matthew 5: 43-44c “You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you,

...Do good to those who hate you... What does that even mean? How do we relate to this command? Hate is such a powerful emotion. It is difficult to control. However, in Christ, we have the ability to overturn the hate that is shown toward us.

We can overturn the hate shown to us by doing good to the hater.

1. Find something good to say to them, about them. (Phil 4:8-9)

2. Value who they are and what interests them.

3. Listen to what they aren't saying.

4. Hateful people are generally hurting people who need someone who knows how to heal people. Get close enough to introduce them to the One who can heal them; body, soul and spirit.

5. Treat them as the child of God they are supposed to be.

How many times is God speaking into who I am supposed to be instead of who I am. It isn't that He is displeased with me or angry with me. He is speaking into what He knows I can become when I remain connected to Him.

Hate is a secondary emotion. When someone hates us there is something deeper going on within them. Most of the time we haven't done anything wrong, sometimes it is because we have done something right. They are struggling because they know they could have exactly what we have if they would join us. When we remember this, we can choose to not get caught up in their hatred. If we have done something wrong, then thoroughly take ownership of what you did or said and make amends.

Father, You are amazing. This is has been a difficult command to follow. When I hear someone hating on me, spewing sharp words or despising me, I want to hide. I want to flee. I want to get as far away from them as possible. I know I can't change them. It takes all of You inside of me to stick around and try to find ground where I can let their hatred pass over me while I offer them goodness. I pray when the situation comes again, I will put my feelings aside and listen to them. I pray I would value them and find ways to be good to them. I do not want to run, when my place is to be in their presence and doing good to them. Give me courage to remain and not flee in Jesus' name amen.

A Warrior in the Lord’s Army,

Veridee Joy Hand

Join together as Believers in Jesus Christ to pray and to push back the enemy as we release God’s power here on earth. If you have any questions please feel free to make a comment or private message me. If you would like this to come to your email directly please go to verideehand.com and subscribe.