By Layshen

Read: Leviticus 20:22-22:16, Mark 9:1-29, Psalm 43:1-5, Proverbs 10:18

The one who conceals hatred has lying lips,
and whoever utters slander is a fool.
Proverbs 10:18

Relate:
Being a junior student in high school, getting talked about behind my back is probably one of my biggest fears because, well, being liked and accepted is quite a big deal when you are around other people most of the time. However, to be frank, there might just have been a few times when I have addressed other people in… let’s just say, not very positive lights. And don’t get me wrong, I don’t think I hate anyone, it is just that it feels kinda fun to throw shades (slander) at people behind their backs with my buddies. After reading this verse though, it made me think: I don’t want people to talk trash about me, so why am I being the fool and slandering other people? I am probably better off just hating them blatantly than not saying anything before them but slandering them when they are not present.

React:
A wise person does not hide his emotions against someone. What benefit is there to hide hatred against another person? God is not saying that we should hate someone, however. A Christian should “get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.” We should get rid of hatred by owning up to it and not concealing it. In the same way, Christians should never utter slander against anyone. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” The tongue is a powerful thing, and we should pay attention to what we are saying.

Respond:

Dear God,
You have commanded us to love each other, even our enemies. Please help me to get rid of my hatred and bitterness, and help me to guard my tongue and bring blessings to other people. Let me be evidence of your glory by doing what is right and loving other people.
Amen.