By: Chef Dashi
Anger and contempt were explained in very insightful ways in the Divine Conspiracy. The cause of anger seems to be related to the wounded ego and can be expanded and affects the world more than I can imagine. One thing that I had never thought of was that contempt is worse than anger. By excluding someone, we leave them out and isolated. Belonging is indeed a vital need for humans. Such poisonous heart conditions and actions also contribute to anger and resentment.
In the worst case, I’ve seen and heard countless reports that people took their life with the effect of contempt and deception of evil voices. In Japan, the suicide rate is the second-highest in the world. Especially in a group society with collectivistic views in every aspect of social and personal life, being excluded ties to self-worth and the issue of ‘ shame’ directly. It is very scary for Japanese people to experience isolation and being excluded. Ijime いじめ traps people with simple contempt. The first act of contempt may not look so serious, however, it can build up to fear as much as it could deprive the sense of a purpose to live.
I intentionally welcome people in different groups and try my best to make them feel accepted. But after reading this section, I realized that it is serious for kingdom citizens to demonstrate godly love.
I’ve also seen that this same love among the disciples of Christ can bring non-believers to God, contrary to contempt. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we all can be much more powerful witnesses as we become more aware of the truth about this condition of our hearts. I hope to meet people where they are at and encourage others to do the same. This simple act of acceptance is needed and I hope that we become patient in God’s work and love others sincerely.