Getting Rid of Hatred

      We are called to rid ourselves of all hatred. Hatred feels powerful but it is a weakness. It sickens and is time consuming. No one appreciates a hateful person. Usually thought to not be in her right mind, the person is usually feared. 

     Decay of the heart and soul, it tires the body and causes illness. The back is bent and there is darkness in the heart. The mind is consumed and obsessed. The immune system is lowered and the person's face is contorted. 

     There isn't much quality time for family and friends. They suffer so much in the midst of the hateful person. People feel when you are at peace or tince. Hatred gets in the way of a peaceful day and sidetracks good things being done.

     Usually based on something one person did in the past applied to others or unforgiveness, it often makes no sense to most people.

     How can we get rid of the hatred we feel? Well first be solid in your decision that you are not going to feel or act that way anymore. Being certain that it is the wrong response for any situation helps as well as knowing that you only do yourself and loved ones harm.

     Breathe, pray and repent. Becoming more self aware and including God in the plan will help you when it is time to turn about-face.

     Don't expect much positivity at first. People got used to it and expect things to be the same. Some people may feel that they have sacrificed to much in agreeing with you for you to suddenly change now. But keep with it and you will be a healthier and happier person.

     The apostle Paul was someone full of hatred at first. He gave his approval at the stoning of Stephan and put many believers in prison. On the road to Demascus he met Christ Jesus and reppented of his hatred. He went through much while preaching the Gospel but God was with him.

     Repentance isn't always easy but the angels will be rejoicing! 

     Doing the opposite, loving, shines like the noon day sun and is hard to hide. No good deed will go unnoticed, the Bible says. You could feel that you are making a show of yourself but be brave and keep pressing onward. 

     Pray for God's love and joy to be in your life and pray for your enemies blessing them.

     Speak well of those you hated and confess that you don't hate them anymore.

     Be good to your loved ones.

     Enter into prayerful meditations. One I use is I lay down and breathe and begin to rest in gratitude toward God. Then I send the love of God to different people and into different situations.

     Another is I envision Christ Jesus on the cross and send love to him.

     Try to make amends with the people who you hated. This can be impossible because it usually goes both ways. Dealing with their hatred can be difficult but know that you did the right thing in forgiving them and getting on with life.

     Find like-minded companions and find new, better things to say and do. Don't let that hatred rise up in your soul to take over your life again.

     Father in Heaven,

     Thank you for love and peace as well as your joy. Also thank you for your times of testing. Please help us to be strong and not hate. Help us to repent and be more concerned about our families friends and even our own salvation. May we walk by faith and help us to make amends with our enemies.

     May you bless enemies with peace and hope. Grant them faith and grace.

    In Christ Jesus name,

                                   Amen