CHANGING ENEMIES INTO FRIENDS

CHANGING ENEMIES INTO FRIENDS

READ:
Matthew 5:43-48

But I say to you, love your
enemies...do good to those
who hate you. -Matthew 5:44

During the US Civil War, hatred became entrenched between the North and South.  In one instance, President Abraham Lincoln was criticized for speaking of benevolent treatment for the Southern rebels.  The critic reminded Lincoln that there was a war going on, the Confederates were the enemy, and they should be destroyed.  But Lincoln wisely responded, "I destroy my enemies when I make them my friends."

Lincoln's comment is insightful.  In many ways it reflects Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount:  "I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:44-45).

We will encounter difficult people in our lives-some on whom we will need to set limits.  But to give in to the temptation to undermine or hurt them in any way is not God's way.  Instead, we should pray for them, show consideration, look out for their best interests, and emphasize the positive.  This may result in changing an enemy into a friend.

Not everyone will respond positively to us, but we can pray and plan for a more harmonious relationship.  What difficult person can you start befriending? -Dennis Fisher

Lord, some people in my life are difficult to love.
I am tempted not even to try to care.  But You showed
love to me even when I was Your enemy.  Please direct
me into ways to love with Your power and grace.
*********************************************
It's hard to hate someone
when you're doing something good for him.

INSIGHT
One of Israel's earliest national laws commanded them to treat their enemies with benevolence and respect (Exodus 23:4-5).  In today's passage, Jesus clarified why this was commanded.  In loving our enemies, we are emulating the generosity and benevolence that God our Father has shown to all men, including the wicked (Matthew 5:45).  Paul similarly exhorted us to "repay no one evil for evil" (Romans 12:17).  Instead, we are to "overcome evil with good" (v.21).  We can do this because we can trust God to administer justice (v.19).

Have a blessed day.
God Our Creator's Love Always
Unity & Peace