Have you heard it taught that you are to love the sinner but hate the sin? This is a valid distinction and a true principle, but it is not easy to apply to others, because you have to understand that the evil they do is not an expression of their true identity, or at least of their true destiny. Do you find it even more difficult to apply this principle to yourself, since you struggle with persistent areas of weakness? Self-hatred is not an appropriate response, for it is not a part of the redemptive process. If you can accept others in spite of their flaws, you can accept yourself, not embracing your flaws, but in spite of them. 

Do you realize the historical importance of the rule of law? It meant that there was one legal code for all, with no privileged class making exceptions or a special set of rules for themselves. This way the expectations of the law can be consistent and uniform. This is of great benefit for civil government but it is not a Kingdom principle. Some people are called to different standards in such matters as the consumption of alcohol. One abstains and another exercises moderation. My word teaches you not to offend your weaker brother. In this case you don’t even need to determine which one is weaker. Let each one obey me joyfully according to the light of his conscience, and accept his brother without judgment or condemnation. 

Have you ever been so offended by someone else’s offense toward you that you were forced to move on to a different situation? Did you respond in bitterness and resentment to the one who made things intolerable for you? Yet afterwards have you seen that it was my will and timing for you to move on? Then you should not be angry at those who facilitate my will being done in your life. Your life will be more pleasant and your progress will be faster if you look beyond the immediate and superficial to see the transcendent and eternal behind it. Joseph knew this when he told his brothers that what they meant for evil God meant for good. You can too. 

Do you understand the goal of the Christian life? You ask me for provision and healing and I give you these things, but the goal of the Christian life is not to have stuff or even to be healthy. My long-term plan is to transform you into my likeness to make you a suitable companion for me. Therefore I tell you not to seek after the things that the gentiles seek, even though you need them and I provide them for you. I want you to seek first my Kingdom, to seek those things which are above. Receiving is easy, and transformation is not. You can’t do it by yourself, but if you seek me I will make it happen.