Loving or Loathing by David Jeremiah

Wednesday, March 15

Loving or Loathing 

Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. 
Romans 5:5 

Recommended Reading Romans 5:1-5

Can we be angry with someone we love? Of course, but we cannot long remain in such a state. Either our love will gain the upper hand, or our anger will harden into bitterness.

We bump into warnings about bitterness throughout the New Testament. Stephen told the ruling counsel, “For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness” (Acts 8:23). Paul told us to get rid of all “bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking” (Ephesians 4:31). Colossians warns husbands against developing bitterness toward their wives (Colossians 3:19). And the book of Hebrews warns that when a root of bitterness springs up, it causes trouble and defiles many (Hebrews 12:15).

Agape love and sinful anger cannot long exist in the same heart, so we must put aside angry thoughts and display God’s love. This doesn’t come merely by playing music, reading books, or listening to motivational speakers. It’s true we need all the help we can get. But true agape love has only one source—it pours into our hearts from God by the Holy Spirit.

Then we can release that love and let it overflow to others!

The Bible teaches that if we seek revenge, we are violating the principles of God, but we are also setting ourselves up for Satan’s control of our life. 
David Jeremiah