Monday, February 8, 2010

Loving Your Enemies

Matthew 5:43-45-[Jesus said,] "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven."

We often talk about the privileges of being a child of God - forgiveness, salvation, a future in heaven with him, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and ultimate victory when Christ comes. One of the greatest privileges we get, however, is the opportunity to act toward those who dislike and hate us in a way that reflects the character of God himself. We all have been hurt, offended or mistreated by someone and it does indeed cause hurt feelings and pain and sorrow along with anger and thoughts of revenge. Anyone can return hate for hate, but it takes a child of God to return a blessing and a prayer for their enemies.

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