Nothing is more devastating to the human psyche than contempt. It is far worse than hate or anger. It creates deep divisions and lifelong enemies. Contempt expresses itself in putting people down, demonizing them and calling them names because they do not agree with your ideas. Contempt is now rampant. It is the reason we cannot have civil discourse about differing ideas on any subject. Once an idea or opinion is put forth the person are group is railed against in devastating and contemptuous ways. The only cure is to love your enemies. Love those whose ideas you don’t embrace. Listen in love to differing opinions. We do not have to be right, but we must love.
“You’re familiar with the command to the ancients, ‘Do not murder.’ I’m telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder. Carelessly call a brother ‘idiot!’ and you just might find yourself hauled into court. Thoughtlessly yell ‘stupid!’ at a sister and you are on the brink of hellfire. The simple moral fact is that words kill.” Matthew 5:21-22 (MSG)
