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

Have you become a hater, someone who envies the success and joys of others? Do you like to take people down a notch? Or -- do you dismiss criticism from
others, brushing it off as “hateful” without consideration?

Repent if Necessary

Repent over envy, jealousy, and bitterness toward others. Repent for tearing others down; God says to only let words that build up come out of your mouths (Ephesians 4:29). And repent for being dismissive 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.

James 4:10

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.

Micro-Meditation

Psalm 119:137-144

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.

Read the versus of the Psalm.

Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.

Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.

Teaching or Command of God

James 4:10

Humble yourselves before the Lord…

The Promise

James 4:10

…and he will lift you up.

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?