"You shall not bear hatred for your brother in your heart. Though you may have to reprove him, do not incur sin because of him." Leviticus 19:17

Earlier this morning, I was talking to my friend who is very irritated with another person. She said that this person was already going overboard and she has lost all respect. In her story, it seems like the person she's talking about tends to spite everyone and project a proud and arrogant demeanor. She was saddened by how she was looked down upon and doesn't want to do anything with that person ever again.

Looking at the story, that person is the antagonist. That person should be hated, no questions asked. Anyone who's being belittled will feel hurt. But here's a shocking question - does that person know that he or she is already hurting other people? If yes, then it is indeed better to step back for now. Do not let his or her reproach cause you to sin; disrespect, speak ill or judge. Other people's words are just that - words.

On the other hand, if he or she doesn't know that he or she is already offending somebody, it's a different story. Why? Some people are not aware that they're already hurting the other party. Even I can relate to that. Maybe that person is carrying something heavy in his or heart and may not mean to say unkind words. There might be a deeper reason that is causing him or her to act that way.

In the world today where it is very easy to hate, let us seek first to understand. Let us humble ourselves and be the bigger person. Let us embrace those who are lacking positivity and love in their lives.

Lord, help us spread love and not hate. Teach us to understand others and not judge them right off the bat. In Jesus name, Amen.