Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

Ephesians 4:29-30

Truth in relationships.  A cardinal sin that causes uproar in our spirits is employing the weapon of prayer instead of the poison of hate or disgust.  People need our prayers!

I must keep in mind that without prayer I am hopeless. Yet I recognize that I find it difficult to pray for people with whom I have nothing in common.  Jesus did not give us license to hate those who have no love for God.

The air is full of accusations – even this morning people are spewing out hurtful things.  Sometimes it looks like we are called to condemn all who disagree with the call of God, we are called to love all and to keep praying for their full salvation.

I see that Paul ties together the tendency to hate or despise to grieving the Holy Spirit.  I should never allow a thought to grieve the Holy Spirit in my life.  The Holy Spirit is holy and will keep me in the way of holiness as I walk with God in love.