God's View On Hatred

“In time we hate that which we often fear.” -William Shakespeare, Antony and Cleopatra

Racism, bigotry, mob-like behavior, political divisiveness, and slow-action between government and public agencies fuel much of the hatred we see today. Hatred is a fluid emotion that changes its level and type depending on different factors. Therefore, there really is no easy answer as to the reason for all of this hate.

Naturally, some will disagree with this. And yet, if it isn't any of the above, then what is it that drives our blatant hatred of each other? The Bible has a thing or two to tell us about hate. Maybe it might be beneficial to look at hate from a biblical viewpoint.

Let's draw a line down the middle of the page and add two headings: Positive and Negative. According to the Bible there are "positive" and "negative" sides to hate. We'll examine the "positive" side of hate first. Psalm 97:10a tells us that we should, "Let those who love the Lord hate evil...”

If our relationship with God is healthy, and we are right with Him, then it is justifiable to hate those things that God abhors. You see, the closer we walk in fellowship with the Lord, sin becomes more evident and obvious to us. This includes both inner and outer sin.

That's why it hurts and angers us so much when we see spiritual hypocrisy, glaring unbelief, ungodly behavior, and God's name being slandered. As we grow with God, we come to understand His attributes and love His character. This in turn permits us to be more like Him, hating whatever goes against His Word and nature.

Now, let's turn to the "negative" side of hate. We are more familiar with this "hate" as the one that is directed against others. This is the "hate" that we discussed at the beginning of today's message. It is ugly, unsettling, and can sometimes be deadly.  The Lord mentions this hatred in his Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:22; Matthew 5:23-26).

Needless to say, God isn't very fond of this kind of hate. It is so detestable in His eyes that if a person hates, he or she is said to be walking in darkness, not in the light (1 John 2:9; 11). Even worse is the person who professes to be a follower of Christ, but continues to espouse hatred toward others (1 John 4:20). This person is a liar who, though may be able to fool others, isn't fooling God one iota!

In closing, hatred is a toxin that eats away at our hearts and minds. It destroys us from the inside out. Thus, we must be vigilant when it comes to hatred. It can spring up inside of us at any time (Hebrews 12:15). Hatred can also drive us apart in our relationship with God and other believers.

We all need to carefully follow the Lord's advice, and confess every sin that would separate us from Him no matter how big or small. In this way, He will faithfully forgive us as He has promised (1 John 1:9; 2:1).

Scripture: Romans 12:19; Luke 10:27; Psalm 11:5; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 5:5

Prayer: Jesus, I pray that my heart will not be consumed by anger and hatred. Also, help me to follow your example as I interact with others. Let me be compassionate, patient, and forgiving towards all whom I may meet during my day. Amen

Have a blessed day!

Judy