My Georgia Sunday - Hate Is A Strong Word

GEORGIA FOLK AND FARM LIFE - Driving home from church today, I found myself thinking about Luke. He was likely a close friend of Paul, but the words he recorded still challenge us. One of the hardest sayings is when Jesus tells us, in effect: Don’t follow Me unless you’re willing to ‘hate’ even your father, mother, spouse, children, or anyone else close to you.

That word hate is jarring. Across most English translations, it shows up again and again. But in a Spanish version I came across, the word used meant “to postpone” or “to put behind.” That sheds light, doesn’t it? The point isn’t about despising those we love—it’s about putting Him first. Our relationship with Christ must be the priority, above every other.

And for the young folks reading this, remember—God also gave us the commandment to honor our father and mother. He’s not giving us a license to rebel; He’s calling us to keep our lives ordered rightly. When Christ is first, all the other loves in our lives fall into place.

That’s something to ponder on this fine Sunday evening. The air is finally cooling off, and my heart is warmed thinking about next Saturday. I can’t wait to see you all at the Georgia Folk and Farm Life Gathering and Story Revival. Bring the people you love—we’ll begin with prayer and keep our priorities straight with the Lord.

~Matt

Georgia Folk and Farm Life Gathering & Story Revival

Saturday - September 13th - 1pm - 5pm

New Beginnings In Christ Mens Recovery Home

Garfield, Georgia