I'm now on day 8 of my church's 21 day fast, and it's has been tough so far. But during this time lots of good has come. I feel like I'm overcoming a lot of things that have plagued me in my past, and also growing deeper in my faith and understanding of the bible. 

I'm currently on day 13 of my 'read the bible' in a year plan (it basically means that by the end of the year i will have read the full bible).

I've just finished Genesis, and found the story of Joseph to be of great significance. 

Joseph is one of the younger sons of Jacob aka Israel. He is sold into slavery by his brothers as he is favoured by his dad more than the older kids. Even with this happening, years later when Joseph becomes one of the most respected figures in all of Egypt, his brothers return needing his assistance. He gives them food and takes them in with his father, and completely forgives them.

This concept is hard to understand without context so I suggest you read yourself. The key take away for me is the forgiveness Joseph shows and the gratitude to God, even though thia was a terrible time it led to a lot of good in his life. 

It reminds me of how i have had many turn their backs on me, including family in the past. I would always return their ill intentioned feelings back at them with the same feeling and energy. 

However I have this thing I keep saying to myself lately. When hate comes in, only love will pour out, I refuse to acknowledge hate with more hate. 

Its funny that as I undergo this transformation I'm reminded of the importance of being this way. Joseph didn't let his anger rise to those that hurt him, instead he opened his arms to heal the relationship between them. 

Focusing on the hate and evil of the world by doing the same in turn gets you nowhere. The only way to conquer hate and evil is with love and faith. The more I apply this the better my life is becoming, and I thank God for this.

I hope this message can help someone out there to delete the hate and insert more love ❤️.

Have a nice day.