Proverbs 26:24-26 NKJV

[24] He who hates, disguises it with his lips, and lays up deceit within himself; [25] When he speaks kindly, do not believe him, for there are seven abominations in his heart; [26] Though his hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness will be revealed before the assembly.

I dealt with hatred and bitterness for years. Being disrespected, mistreated, and unfairly judged takes its toll. In some respects, I believe my addictions helped to mask (and fuel) a lot of those emotions. Part of my recovery required complete transparency into the past I tried to keep covered.

When I relinquished control of my secret sins and addictions, something amazing happened. The scales of anger towards these offenses fell away. When the love of Christ floods the heart, hatred and bitterness could not stay. There wasn't enough room for it with this newfound joy. Experiencing authentic truth does wonderful things.

John 8:31 - Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”