Understanding Hostility and How to Respond
Have you ever wondered why there seems to be so much animosity between people? I often find myself thinking about this. In simple terms, animosity refers to a strong feeling of dislike or even hostility toward someone or something. It’s much deeper than just not liking someone—it’s an intense feeling that can lead to opposition and even conflict.
What Is Animosity?
To put it plainly, animosity is when you really, really don’t like someone or something, and those feelings can spill over into your actions. Here’s what makes animosity different from just not getting along:
· Strong Dislike: Animosity isn’t just a small annoyance or mild irritation. It’s a deep and powerful dislike that often sticks around.
· Active Opposition: Rather than just quietly feeling negative, animosity pushes people to act—to argue, to compete, or even to try to hurt the other person in some way.
· Hostility and Enmity: These are just fancy ways of saying that animosity involves a sense of being against someone, almost like having an enemy.
· Not Quite Malice: Malice is when you want to hurt someone just for the sake of it. Animosity can be less about hurting and more about wanting to beat, oppose, or avoid the other person.
Why Does Animosity Happen?
There are lots of reasons people feel animosity. Sometimes it’s because of misunderstandings, jealousy, competition, or feeling hurt. Other times, it’s just old grudges that haven’t been forgotten. The sad thing is, animosity usually ends up causing more pain and more problems for everyone involved.
What Does the Bible Say About Animosity?
If you’re curious about a Christian perspective, the Bible has a lot to say about animosity—and it’s almost always negative. Here’s a quick summary in everyday language:
· Let Go of Bitterness: The Bible warns against holding onto bitterness and anger. For example, Ephesians 4:31 says we should get rid of bitterness, rage, anger, and malice.
· Practice Forgiveness: One of the best ways to fight animosity is to forgive. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus says that God forgives us when we forgive others.
· Respond with Love: Over and over, the Bible tells people to show love, even to their enemies. Romans 12:20 encourages acts of kindness toward those we might not get along with.
· A Barrier to Growth: Animosity can block spiritual growth and harm your relationship with God. The Bible says that people who hold onto these negative feelings might miss out on the blessings of God’s kingdom.
· Be Kind and Compassionate: Instead of letting animosity rule, the Bible teaches us to be kind, compassionate, and tenderhearted—reflecting the loving nature of God.
Final Thoughts
Animosity is a serious and powerful emotion, but it doesn’t have to control us. Whether you think about it from a faith perspective or just as a human being, letting go of hostility and embracing forgiveness, kindness, and love leads to a better life for everyone. So next time you feel that deep dislike creeping in, remember: we all have the power to choose understanding and compassion over animosity.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 