HEY PREACHER!

I've been asked to lighten up:
with the preaching, the Gospel (Good News)
the Truth

they say,
"lighten up."

But Lord,
Psa 139:20 They blaspheme You; Your enemies misuse Your name.
Psa 139:21 O LORD, shouldn't I hate those who hate You? Shouldn't I despise those who oppose You?
Psa 139:22 Yes, I hate them with total hatred, for Your enemies are my enemies.
Psa 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
Psa 139:24 Point out anything in me that offends You, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

But, I can't hate them! I hate the sin. I'm concerned for their souls. But, hatred? My heart just won't do it-I cry out to God for them with this one defense:
Christ Jesus-who knows the hearts of men, even the wicked,
that He said to bless those who persecute us,
and to pray for our enemies;
Christ loved them to the point of death-
death on the cross and said,
"Father, forgive them for they know not what they do."

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.

Amen