Hate is learned from our environment, not inherited. Through intentional curiosity, prayer, and Christ-centered love, we can actively unlearn hate and build compassionate communities.
Conflict is everywhere these days. Media makes us hyper-aware of every issue, from global to local.
What’s the root cause of all this hatred?
I believe we are not born knowing how to hate another person. You take three-year-olds from vastly different backgrounds and drop them on a playground, and they’ll eventually find a way to play.
I think we learn how to hate through experiences in our environment and the voices we choose to believe.
We learn hate, and Christ calls us to unlearn it.
Jesus calls us to radical love and purposeful understanding. He teaches in Matthew 5:44, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
When we seek the genuine good of everyone, despite differences, we are doing the work of Christ.
Easier said than done.
What do you do when you’re in the midst of conflicts far greater than yourself, like when your country is at war or deeply divided politically?
Some hatred seems too big for us to address.
Look at what’s happening in the Middle East, for example.
Some people feel stirred up to do something, but feel helpless. So, they turn to the internet! They debate. They TYPE IN ALL CAPS. They post endlessly.
It’s fine to be an advocate, but often what people are doing is grasping for control.
When we feel out of control, we pray to the One who is in control.
Even in sharp disagreement, lifting our leaders in prayer is an act of faith that aligns our hearts with God's wisdom, bringing peace into chaos and clarity amid confusion.
As Paul urges in 1 Timothy 2:1-2, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
We can’t individually halt wars. So what can we do? How do we act in the face of hatred?
Jesus said the essence of true obedience to the Bible is loving God and loving your neighbor (Matt 22:36-40).
We may not be able to stand against tyrants, save all the dispossessed, and rescue every kitten from a tree.
But we can check in on our neighbors, help that woman load her groceries into her car, and take an extra moment to volunteer at the shelter.
Who are the people in your community with whom you disagree?
Have you met with them over coffee to lovingly discuss your differences?
Before technology connected us all, your local community was your world.
That still hasn’t changed. The only difference is that the media has allowed us to hyper-fixate on global issues, all the while ignoring the people right beside us.
Hatred is addressed one heart at a time. Divides must be bridged between two neighbors if we ever hope to bridge the gap between nations.
