Devotion
I hate …..words Jesus never said
David Jacobs
One of my earliest memories is a sad one. I do not remember all of the details, but I must have been about 4 years old at the time. I got into an argument with my mother, and for some reason, I snapped. My mother is the best woman I have ever met in my life. A better mom doesn't exist. In my moment of childish rage, I told her that I hated her, and went up to my room to cry.
Even today, I look back on this event and feel sad. I asked my mother about it and she didn't remember so it wasn't as important to her I suppose. Even as a 4-year old, I was spewing and spreading hate. If I at such a young age can do it, think about how much it happens on earth.
If you claim to hate anyone and love God, you are a hypocrite. Christ does not tolerate those that hate, teaching about how we should treat even our worst enemies. You can look to the Old Testament, of course, and find examples of God showing favor to some people and hating others, but that all changed when his son, Christ, was born. With Christ's birth we were all something new, including God.
Prayer
There are no instances of Christ spreading hate, and we should try to follow his lead. If we all do this, the word will disappear, and a new world will appear.
Night Prayer
And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.
Inspiration
We have many daily challenges that cause us to worry. Financial burdens, physical health, and other personal affairs cause anxiety and fear. Jesus reassures the disciples that they do not have to worry about where they will rest or what clothes they will wear because God will be present to provide for them as needed. We can apply this knowledge to our concerns as well. God is present and will provide for us physically and spiritually. Even when things are not okay, His presence alone grants us peace to make it through each life event.
Prayer
Dear Lord, we love and adore You. We are grateful for Your presence in our lives and the peace You bestow upon us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.