Daily Devotional for June 2, 2022

Yesterday, as war raged in Ukraine, murdered children in Uvalde were laid to rest, and Elon Musk threatened to fire employees who chose to work from home rather than drive to the office, the lead story of many news outlets was the verdict in the defamation case between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard.  They were both found guilty.
 
Two lessons can be learned from this sad, never-ending circus.
 
First, the testimony on both sides of the case proved fame and wealth do not make you a good, moral person.  It was clear their relationship was grotesque, dysfunctional, and abusive.
 
I know wealthy people who don’t have a sense of entitlement attached to their bank accounts.  They’ve got it right and the way they live their lives proves it.
 
Second, we saw their mutual hate destroy both as they drug out each other’s dirty laundry for the world to see.  Neither one will truly recover their reputation.  Both will have permanent scars – all in the name of hate.
 
Kathy is a very wise member of our church.  She told me, “Wrath destroys the vessel in which it is stored and not the one on which it is poured.” I wish Johnny Depp and Amber Heard had met Kathy.  Things may have been very different.
 
Always remember, the purpose of hate is to destroy.  Each of us susceptible.
 
I can remember a time when I hated with every fiber of my being.  God rescued me.  God can do the same for you.
 
If you find yourself being overcome by hate, give it to God and walk away.  It is the only way a follower of Jesus can remain faithful.
 
John said, “Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble.  But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them.”  (1 John 2:9-11)
 
Don’t let hate blind you.  Let Jesus set you free.
 
Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, in those moments when I am tempted to hate, ease my spirit, calm my soul, and give me peace.  Help me lead a life that pleases you.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.
 
Love conquers hate.  Our world could use a lot more of it.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins