HATE

When studying the Bible you'll find that 'hatred' is spoken of throughout. Scripture reveals that there are two sides to this 'intense dislike' or 'extreme aversion' ... 

For instance, it is acceptable to hate those things the Lord hates. It actually shows proof that you've surrendered your life to Christ and that the Holy Spirit influences your thoughts, words, and deeds. The more intimate your relationship with God, the more conscious you are of sin (both within and without). 

Let those who love the Lord hate evil. Psalm 97:10 

When you come to understand God’s divine attributes and love Him for Who He is, you will hate everything that defiantly opposes His Word and His Nature. Is your heart not angered when Jesus' name is maligned, when false religions deceive people, or when you witness satan having his way with those who reject Christ?

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, and against the worldly governors, the princes of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness, which are in the high places. Ephesians 6:12

The Bible also reveals there is a wrong kind of 'hatred'; that which is directed toward others from an embittered. critical, and/or prideful mindset ... 

He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him. But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes. 1 John 2:9-11

So heinous is this type of hatred, that any thought or deed associated with it is seen as 'murder' in God's eyes. How many believers live for years pretending that all is well, only to be found wanting because they have harbored 'enmity' against another? 

Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this, many become defiled. Hebrews 12:14-15

Know this, pilgrim ... harboring this sort of 'hate' will destroy your personal testimony concerning God's mercy and grace. It is a poison that eats away at your heart and mind. Keep short accounts with everyone, about everything, and the Lord's love will be evident in your walk of faith.