Father of love, the only thing I can think of that You hate is evil and sin. And wanting to follow You, I confess that, at times, I have hatred in my heart. Your Word says that anyone who claims to love You but has hatred for their brother, they are a liar.1 Lord, help me see recognize even more the pain that hate brings, both to me and to those I struggle against.
I understand that hatred blinds me to Your light and the love I should have for others.2 I want to walk in the light, so please help me to root out any and all bitterness, wrath, and anger.3 I confess to You that my hateful attitude has clouded my judgment, and Father, I pray for healing in my relationships.
Let your love, which covers all offenses, flow through me.4 I acknowledge that being quick to hear and slow to speak is often difficult in times of anger; grant me the patience and grace to respond with love instead.5 Teach me to reason frankly with others and to engage in open dialogue rather than fostering enmity in my heart.6
Help me, Lord, to be mindful of my thoughts and actions. I don’t want to be ruled by anger or resentment. Instead, I seek to love my neighbor genuinely, for I know that hatred stirs up strife while love promotes peace.7 I pray for those I feel anger towards, that I may see them through Your eyes. Help me recognize the value of every person as made in Your image and to respond with compassion rather than animosity. Most importantly, I seek Your forgiveness for the times I have allowed hate to overshadow my heart. I trust that You are faithful and just to cleanse me from all unrighteousness.8 Thank You for Your mercy and grace. Amen.