Disciples Refuse to Embrace Hatefulness
1 John 2:9-11
Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumbles. But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them.
Hater-ade: It’s not an actual drink, but what people are described as being drunk on when they act with or persist in hateful or negative attitudes. It’s a dark place to be – and one God Himself warns us about.
It’s not just a command of God not to hate (and positively to love); it’s also unhealthy to hate – for you personally and for those with whom you’re interacting while under the blight of hatred. In Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, He expands the meaning of “You shall not murder” and its requisite judgment to include anger and coming judgment as well (Matthew 5:21-22).
Anger, envy, and bitterness often lead to hatred. They are all areas of darkness that need the light of Christ revealing and healing those unhealthy places.
Prayer
Jesus Christ, I claim to be in the light as You are in the light. I want no darkness to exist in me. I claim You as Lord and Savior – and I pray that my life reflects Your light, that my actions bring light rather than darkness. May hatred have no place in my life! To God be the glory. Amen.
Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God
An explanation of the connection between Psalm 119 and the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet was provided in a previous devotion.
Micro-Meditation Scripture
Psalm 119:137-144 (Tsadhe, 18th letter)
צ
- You are righteous, LORD,
and your laws are right. - The statutes you have laid down
are righteous; they are fully trustworthy. - My zeal wears me out,
for my enemies ignore your words. - Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant loves them.
- Though I am lowly and despised,
I do not forget your precepts. - Your righteousness is everlasting
and your law is true. - Trouble and distress have come upon me,
but your commands give me delight. - Your statutes are always righteous;
give me understanding that I may live.
Micro-Meditation Action
Read the verses of the Psalm two times. Focus on what you see differently on the second reading.
Mark any words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: Talk (or write in a journal) with God about the words that catch your attention. Ask Him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect a response.
Micro-Meditation
Pondering Point
The traditional sense of the Hebrew letter Tsadhe revolves around justice and righteousness, especially being so. This is seen readily in this section of Psalm 119.