Scripture

“But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.”

Observation

Even though the Law says, “eye for eye and tooth for tooth”, we are not to seek revenge. If someone strikes us on the right cheek, we are to let them strike us on the left cheek also. Always go further than the law requires.

Teachers have said, “Love your neighbour, but hate your enemy.” Jesus says we must love our enemies. We must pray for those who persecute us, and greet brothers and pagans alike.

Application

Who is my enemy? I don’t think that I have any enemies as such. Perhaps there are people who are opposed to the gospel and therefore to me, but I don’t know who these people are.

Nobody mocks me or hurts me or calls me names that I know of.

Jesus says that we should expect persecution just for being His followers. We are to love those who hate us.

Things are changing in Western cultures. The move towards persecution of christians is accelerating. If there is no revival, then it is possible that enemies will increase.

So I need to practise love and forgiveness towards everyone. In this way, Jesus says,we behave like our Father in heaven who blesses even those who hate Him.

Prayer

Lord, it is hard to love those who are hostile to me. Please help me to do this. Amen.