Week of October 19, 2025

This week, we are analyzing how we can be immune to hate. This includes both our ability to handle the hatred of others, but maybe more importantly, how not to be controlled by hate ourselves. The following readings will help you become immune to hate as you focus on the love of God in Christ.

Monday | Matthew 5:43-48
The call to love is not dependent on how that love is received. When did you experience the radical nature of this love? Why is it essential for us as Christians to embody love over hate? For whom do you need to be praying? And how do you think your prayers for that person will change you?

Tuesday | Proverbs 10:9-12
Simply put, these proverbs contain a deep truth about the power of love to bring healing, whereas hate brings more pain. When has this proven itself true in your experience, or among people you know? What are some things that cause people to choose hate over love? How can you bring life to someone today with your words?

Wednesday | Luke 23:34-38
Jesus is the full display of God’s love, embodying love and not hate, even from the cross. If you were there, what would you have thought of Jesus’ words of forgiveness? How does this passage give you confidence about God’s posture toward you? God is holding nothing against you- what do you think is the proper response to such good news?

Thursday | Romans 12: 14-21
This comes from a broader passage that helps us grasp the power of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Which of these convicted you of shortcomings in your spiritual walk? Why do you think that is? Which encouraged you? What do you think Paul says is the motivation behind our love instead of hate?

Friday: Genesis 50:15-21
The pinnacle moment of Joseph’s life: will he truly forgive or not? After twelve years of “meaningless” suffering because of his brothers, how hard would it be for you to completely forgive and hold nothing against them? When have you held something against someone, big or small? How can you work to bring forgiveness and peace into your heart first, and then the relationship?