TODAY'S RHEMA Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
Abraham Lincoln had just served as president of the United States in 1861 and the country was going through a Civil War and split into two camps- North and South. Different views, especially bothering on politics and slavery, resulted in a fierce fight. In those days, Lincoln said in one of his speeches, "They are the people who are making mistakes, they are not enemies to be exterminated." The shocking remarks sparked protests and loud reprimands from many quarters. However, he continued calmly, "Do not we destroy our enemies by making them our friends?" By the end of 1865, Lincoln had succeeded in reuniting the United States and abolishing slavery forever.
In this life, differences of opinion can't be avoided. Conflicts and disputes that occur as a result often leave a deep wound of the heart. The problem is, many people do not see it as a wound that needs to be treated, so they tend to let it remain in their hearts. In fact, if our hearts are full of wounds, it is difficult for us to be a blessing and light of the world. Instead, our actions and words risk hurting the people around us. Friendship can turn into hostility.
Whether the wounds in our hearts are big or small, deal with it right away. Release forgiveness to the person who hurt you. Embrace and pray for those who hate you. Open your heart to the Holy Spirit in order for Him to work fully in you. No matter how deep the wound, as long as open up to God, the Healer, nothing is impossible. When we are able to deal with hurts in our hearts due to quarrels, hatred, jealousy, disappointment, loss, and other things, our wounds are transformed into blessings. It is possible that God will use our experience to help others going through the same. At that moment, our hearts will radiate life and we will enjoy an extraordinary life with God. REFLECTION Saudara Terkasih, When you treat your wounded heart right and do away with hatred, you will not only enjoy life in its fullness but also become a blessing to others. APPLICATIONS 1. What does it mean to deal with a wounded heart and toss hatred away? 2. Why do you need to deal with your wounded heart and toss any hatred out of your heart? 3. What can you do to receive inner healing and cast away hatred from your heart? TODAY'S PRAYER "Father in the name of Jesus, please teach me to deal with my wounded heart and to toss any hatred in my heart away so I can be a blessing to the people around me. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen."
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