Love Your Enemies
This is probably one of the hardest things that we are commanded to do as Christ followers. It goes against everything our mind and heart wants to do. When we have been wronged, we want revenge, justice, and payback. We want them to feel the pain they have inflicted on us, and yet Jesus tells us to love them, to be kind to them, to forgive them!
I am just pointing out the obvious: That is a tall order! I don’t think we can do it on our own, either. It takes the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit to help us do what is seemingly impossible. If you have people in your life currently or in the past who have become your enemies, let God help you do the right thing. Ask Him to help you forgive them….and to love them.
The enemy of our souls is constantly stirring us up to hate one another, to destroy relationships, and to get revenge. We will be tested in this area. I pray that God bless you and give you His perfect peace. I pray that He give you the power to forgive and to love those who have hurt you.
One of the best signs of forgiveness is when we can show them love. That is true forgiveness. That frees us to be the person that God has created us to be in His image. It does not mean we allow them to use or abuse us. They have to be held accountable. It does not mean we have to allow them in close contact to us if the situation is dangerous or unhealthy. Proper boundaries are good to have for everyone and are necessary to have peace. Pray for one another in this area that we may be able to live in freedom that God intended for us, and that strongholds be broken.
It is a choice. Choose to live in peace and to love one another. The alternative will never give you the desired results and will leave you feeling empty.
Shalom!
Daniel Skognes