Scripture Reading: Psalm 97:10
Ye that love, the LORD hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked.

Reflections: The Psalmist urges those who love the Lord to hate evil. Evil is defined as something ‘immoral and wicked’. God has nothing to do with evil, but Satan does. The way out, therefore, to be distinguished as a child of God is to demonstrate hatred for evil. Hatred denotes ‘hostile actions motivated by intense dislike’. Once you hate something, you do not get near it. You condemn it. You resist it. Jesus’ life on earth was a clear demonstration of hatred for evil. The Hebrews writer summarises it beautifully with the words ‘Thou hast loved righteousness and hated iniquity (Hebrews 1:9). How much you hate evil can tell how much you love the Lord! Don’t just say you love the Lord. Demonstrate that you hate evil!

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me go beyond just saying with my lips that I love you. Let me exhibit hatred for what is immoral and wicked.

Confession: I live a life that shows I hate evil.