Stop the hate and bring peace | Try these 6 Ways

We hear or experience hate from different factions and violence that erupts. Politics can’t solve it. And, it doesn’t just happen “out there. ” No, it’s in many homes and places of work. It’s distressing, and it can make us cry. Why all the fighting? Why all the dissention? Don’t you wish that we could just stop the hate and bring peace? What does the Bible say about this?

1. Christians, Expect Hate

   This is not good news but sometimes, if we know what’s coming, it prepares us for the stress. Jesus said his followers should expect others to hate us because we live in an evil world. “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.” (John 15:18-20, ESV).                                                                           

   So, the world can be a hateful place for Christians. How can we alleviate or lessen some of it?

2. 

   Bring Peace by Responding with Grace and Truth

   Christians, God will help us if we know his Word and abide in him (John 15:1-11). And may I suggest that you know and read the Bible chronologically? Then you will see God in a way you have never seen before. You will understand his mercy, grace, and truth. 

   Here is some of that grace and truth: Use wisdom and a soft, not a sharp tongue.  Solomon, the wisest king who ever reigned on the earth said,  “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1, NIV). We should listen and try to understand why haters feel the way they do. Offer what sympathy you can without sacrificing truth. Be firm but gentle and reasonable. The Lord’s brother James said, “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,” (James 1:19). Here are some other verses to read on the subject: Proverbs 10:19; 14:7; 16:32; 17:27; Ecclesiastes 5:1-2; 7:9

3. Show as much Respect as you can, Especially to Those in Authority. (Roman 13)

   This command could apply to all in authority–parents, teachers, bosses, police, and government officials, particularly the latter. Live a quiet life and be good citizens. Then you will not be open to accusations against your behavior and character.

4. Defuse Hate by being a Testimony of Christ’s Love

   Support Each Other. Be at peace with one another. This is no time to be bickering. Your love for each other is a testimony of Christ’s love. (See 1 Corinthians 13)

5. 
   

   Pray for those who Persecute you and Commit your Soul and Spirit to God.

   Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, (Mt. 5:43-44, NIV)

6. Keep shining the light of Christ by doing good works

   Then, when they see your spirit and your works, they are more likely to change their hateful opinion of you and God, and it will bring peace. The Apostle Peter said to suffering Christians 

   Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.
    He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it.
    For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

   Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?  But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.”

    But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, (1Peter 3:10-15, NIV)