1068) Humans are complex; we can have multiple reasons for the choices we make and they can be so intertwined that it’s hard to see what is cause and what is effect. One of these complicated choices involves malice or, perhaps more clearly, defined as spite or holding a grudge.

Fortunately for me, I do not get angry easily but when I do, it’s usually on behalf of a student another is picking on, but. this is not always the case. I can have a small fire smoldering within when I believe someone has mistreated or misjudged me. Is this a bad thing? Not necessarily. I can feel these things and not respond in a poor manner.

When my reaction to some mistreatment or misjudgment is not good is when I respond with spite or hold a grudge. I picture this choice as my saying; I forgive you and having my fingers crossed behind my back symbolizing I don’t really mean it.

Spite means I don’t forgive because to forgive is to bear the payment myself and let the other off the hook. Besides not forgiving, if I harbor the garbage of spite (and a grudge), I am looking for ways to make my offender pay. This desire puts me above the other person, like we’re both in a pool and my head is above the water level and I hold this other person below the water. I have seen spite fester in others and eat them alive.

The garbage of malice (spite) is so rotten we need to quickly throw it out. Don’t horde it; it’s deadly. Ephesians 4:31.