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We are commanded not to hate!
God calls us to pray for the needs of others. One great need I see today is not to hate those who disagree with us. This goes even for those who show us nothing but hate. God calls us to something greater, a calling to love our neighbor as ourselves.
Paul says in Titus 3:3 NKJV, For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.
Hate is not a part of the Christian walk. Jesus says in Mark 12:31 NKJV, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’
This past year I saw more hate expressed than in all my past years. People seem to have lost the ability to disagree without hating the person with a different view. Often the guilty one says that the other person is guilty of hate.
Often our lack of love is without logical reason and serves no good purpose. Not loving is a choice. We can choose not to hate others and follow God.
This prayer is about surrendering our hatred to God’s love.
Pray about the sin!
Father, our world is at war and hate fills the streets. Almighty God what shall we do? Where shall we go?
You, alone are my peace and my only refuge. Without You, there is no peace, nor place to hide!
Lord God, where has peace gone? Why are the people filled with hate? Lord, what can I do?
Yes, Lord, You have told us to love our neighbors—to love them the same as we love ourselves!
Amen, Lord Jesus!
Honor God!
You honor God when you follow Jesus’ example in loving those who do not show love for you.
It shows arrogance when we refuse to surrender our will and personal feelings to God.
Let us remember how God showed His love for us and our neighbors. In John 3:16 NKJV it says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
God did not wait for us to get right before He loved us and sent His Son to pay for our sins.
We should love with the same openness!
Will you commit yourself to follow His example?