Lie’s That Prevent Joy - Lie#4

 
(1John 2:9) " He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now."  It's amazing to me how many believers believe that they can hate and still be right with God. The world has redefined the word (hate) to apply to anyone that speaks against the beliefs or lifestyles of another, (unless it's Christianity), but seriously God defines hate differently. 
1) To detest someone, meaning that you despise them and choose to dislike them and not forgive them. To say you're saved and feel this way toward anyone is in direct disobedience to the command of God. In fact God closely relates this sin to the sin of murder. 2) To treat another not in love.  Hate is the opposite of love, so if you choose not to love someone you practice hate. Hate can take many forms. God asks all believers to practice mercy and truth. When we withhold truth from another even though we are merciful it is harmful and hateful to that person. Also, we can even hate when we disassociate ourselves from some and fellowship with others. There is nothing worse in this world then to be rejected by brethren. We are supposed to be known for our Love!!