The Deception of a Hardened Heart: True Spiritual Growth Comes from Forgiveness and Love
As believers, we often speak of grace, love, and forgiveness. We attend church, sing the hymns, and profess our faith publicly. But what happens when our hearts are hardened by hatred, resentment, and un-forgiveness? The answer is simple yet profound: We will never spiritually grow up.
Jesus Himself made it clear in Matthew 6:14-15:
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Holding onto hate is a contradiction to the very faith we claim to uphold. It poisons our spirit, clouds our judgment, and prevents us from experiencing the fullness of God’s love.
Going to Church for Show vs. Gaining Biblical Growth
Attending church isn’t what transforms us—it’s the condition of our heart before God that determines our spiritual maturity. If we go to church simply to be seen, yet leave with bitterness still intact, we’ve missed the purpose entirely.
James 1:22 tells us: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
Proverbs 10:12 states that “hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses
Hebrews 12:15 describes hatred as the “root of bitterness,” which can defile other
The Christian walk isn’t just about appearances; it’s about a genuine transformation rooted in Christ.
Steps to Overcome Hate and Embrace Biblical Love
- Recognize the weight of un-forgiveness – Holding onto grudges doesn’t punish the one who wronged you—it punishes you.
- Pray for a softened heart – Ask God to reveal areas of resentment and give you the strength to release them.
- Take responsibility – If you’re harboring hate, it’s not just about others; it’s about you allowing it to remain. Letting go is a choice. Most of the time you are holding
- Practice forgiveness daily – It’s not a one-time decision. It’s a posture of grace that reflects Christ’s love.
- Love your enemies – Jesus Himself said in Matthew 5:44, “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Imagine the spiritual freedom in loving those who least deserve it!
At the end of the day, true Christianity isn’t measured by church attendance, titles, or outward devotion—it’s reflected in the way we love. A heart filled with hate will never grow spiritually. But a heart surrendered to God, even in pain, will flourish.
Will we be Christians in name only, or will we reflect the love of Christ in action? The choice is ours.
How does this feel, Deborah? Would you like to refine it further to match your personal message and experience? I’m happy to adjust the tone or add more Scripture if needed.
Will we be Christians in name only, or will we reflect the love of Christ in action? The choice is ours.
Joyful-Echoes 