Loving Your Enemies

Loving Your Enemies

By Joel B.

Matt 5:39-44 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.

It’s not easy to love our enemies. We may have been the victim of bullies or had someone in an authoritative position put unnecessary pressure on us because they thought it was funny or they had something in it for themselves. We’re not to hate these people. So, if a bully slaps you on the face, give him your other cheek. If an employer drives you to work an extra thirty minutes over for no reason, then offer them an hour. These things are not easy, but they reflect Christ, who is in us, and can bring about change in even the harshest of individuals.

Sometimes there are stories behind people who we see as enemies that we do not realize. Someone may have been abused or may secretly be having unnecessary pressure put on them. Turning the other cheek, or doubling our efforts, not only can help relieve this pressure, but it can show them that they have someone who cares, just as God cares. This may even lead non-believers to Christ.

So my friends, lets love our enemies. Lets bless those who curse us and do good to them that show us hate. We may find out that those enemies quickly turn into friends. And even if this isn’t the case, they will still see Christ in you and be driven to show respect. Lets just not let opportunity slip away to set a good example for these people who can be terrors to us. Lets show them some love, and at least give them the chance to love back. Thank you for reading and God bless.