Review and Re-Center Around God
Genesis 37:4
When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him.
You have likely heard the term “hater.” It is a disparaging label, intended to put down one person who is being critical of another’s actions, words, or choices. Nobody likes a hater, right!?!
But a further trend has developed with the term hater. It seems that a person can dismissively refute another with the phrase, “You’re just a hater” and then go on about whatever he or she was doing – as if the phrase in itself justifies their current actions.
Review the Week
Have you become a hater, someone who envies other successes and joys? Or someone who likes to take people down a notch? Or -- do you dismiss others’ criticisms, waving off “hateful” perspective without consideration?
Repent (if necessary)
Repent over envy, jealousy, and bitterness toward others. Repent for tearing others down; God says to let only words that build up come out of your mouths (Ephesians 4:29). And repent for being dismissing of others’ viewpoints. God is known to speak through others – with or without their knowledge.
Return (as necessary)
This week calls for humbly approaching God, appreciating His long-lasting patience and enduring love, and letting Him "lift you up" as James says (4:10). Go humbly to your God.
Micro-Meditation Scripture
Psalm 119:137-144 (Tsadhe, 18th letter)
- 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
Teaching or Command of God
James 4:10a
Humble yourselves before the Lord…
James 4:10b
…and he will lift you up.
Micro-Meditation
Pondering Point
Part of not forgetting God’s precepts (v. 141) is not despising those who despise you. How are you doing with this? How are you handling personal offenses?