Have you heard the expression “a mouth full of scripture, but a heart full of hate?” Its been making the rounds lately and more and more people are giving serious thought as to what that means.
Before we get into the notion of people who can quote scripture, but never live by it, its important that we realize that our Christian faith is, without doubt, meant to be joyous. We are not meant to be stressed and anxious, but rather, to be free and lighthearted. After all, the Bible comes right out and tells us that we are not to worry and stress and that God Himself has overcome the world and as such, we have nothing to fear. Jesus taught us to be all about love, compassion and happiness. Knowing this, why are so many Christians simply ignoring the Will of God and speaking and acting in a dark and dire manner? Why do they preach hatred, anger and despair? Why are they disobeying God?
Two particular Bible passages come to mind for this discussion:
Matthew 15:8:
“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”
Proverbs 6:16-19:
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked schemes,
feet that are quick to rush into evil,
a false witness who pours out lies
and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.
Of course, none of us are without sin and fault and thus, none of us are perfect, but why do so many of our fellow Christians rush to say one thing, but the do something completely opposite? Do they think God doesn’t notice? Jesus is the very living Will of God and if Jesus told us to love and show mercy, kindness and generosity, why are Christians doing the opposite? Do we really believe God approves of people being cruel and devising wicked schemes? Can any Christian who lies with ease and rushes to stir up conflict think that they are on the side of right?
Christians should desire to spread love and compassion, even if only in some small ways. We can only do our best, so if spreading love and compassion is as simple as volunteering to help the less fortunate, then that is beautiful. I pray for joy and peace for all of God’s children — that regardless of race, nationality, religion, gender, sexual orientation or political affiliation, we approach everyone with a true desire to have peace and harmony with all.
There is no time like the present, so today, let us all embrace love and compassion and make a commitment to be happy, peaceful people who uplift rather than tear down. Let us bring peace and joy to all others, just as we wish the same for ourself.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” – Romans 15:13
“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” – John 15:11
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
