No. 356 - Forsaking Hatred: Embracing Love and Unity

The Consequences of Fleshly Desires

Forsaking Hatred: Embracing Love and Unity

1 John 3:15

”Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.”

Prayer 

Dear Heavenly Father, I ask that You help me to remove any feelings of hatred or bitterness from my heart. Teach me to love others as You have loved me and to walk in unity and peace. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Background 

1 John 3 talks about love as the defining characteristic of a true believer. The chapter contrasts love with hatred, showing that a Christian must follow Christ’s example of love, even to the point of sacrifice. Verse 15 strongly warns that hatred towards others is equivalent to murder in God’s eyes, and no one who harbours such feelings can have eternal life. This verse reminds us to reject hatred and embrace love and unity.

Be Encouraged 

Hatred is a powerful emotion that destroys relationships and separates us from God’s love. It can start small—maybe a disagreement or a feeling of jealousy—but if left unchecked, it grows into bitterness and resentment. Just as weeds choke a garden, hatred chokes our spirit and hinders our ability to love others. In contrast, love brings healing and unity. When we choose to love instead of hate, we allow God’s light to shine through us. Picture a family united in love. Though they may face struggles, love binds them together. This is how we should be as followers of Christ—choosing love even when it’s difficult.

Application 

To forsake hatred and embrace love, we must follow Christ’s example. Ephesians 4:31-32 encourages us to “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you... And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Also, Proverbs 10:12 says, “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins.” These verses remind us that love brings peace and forgiveness, while hatred only causes division.

Invitation 

If you have not yet committed your life to Christ, now is the time to make that important decision. Visit any nearby Church of Christ to be assisted in obeying the gospel of Christ through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of your past sins and for your salvation (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). When you obey, the Lord will add you to His church, where you will continue to grow in faith and learn more about God’s love and commandments (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:47). Don’t let hatred separate you from God’s love. Embrace His call today, and let love rule your heart. Share this message with your family and friends, and encourage them to choose love over hatred.

Concluding Prayer 

Thank You, Lord, for reminding me of the power of love and the danger of hatred. Help me to walk in love every day and to forgive others just as You have forgiven me. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless your day. 

 

Theodore J. Quist 

Evangelist 

Church of Christ 

Abokobi - Accra 

Ghana 


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