LOVING YOUR ENEMIES

July 1st, 2025
by Spike Phillips

Read Matthew 5 vs 43-48

‘You have heard that it was said, “Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.” But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matt 5:43-48)

Loving your enemies is a challenging but rewarding practice. It requires conscious effort and a willingness to extend grace and compassion, even when it's difficult. By practicing these actions, you can cultivate a heart of love and forgiveness, which can ultimately lead to healing and reconciliation.

Here's how to practice loving your enemies:

Pray for them: Pray for their well-being, their healing, and that their hearts would be changed. This can be a powerful way to shift your own perspective and cultivate empathy.
Show respect: Treat your enemies with the basic respect due to any human being. This doesn't mean condoning their actions but acknowledging their inherent worth.
Forgive: Release any bitterness, resentment, or anger you may be holding onto. Forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting, but it does mean letting go of the desire for revenge or retribution.
Be gracious: Respond to unkindness with kindness, even if it's difficult. This doesn't mean being a doormat but choosing to react with love and compassion rather than anger or retaliation.
Don't retaliate: Resist the urge to respond in kind to their negativity. Instead, choose to respond with grace and kindness, even if it's challenging.
Focus on their well-being: Wish them well and genuinely desire their happiness, even if they have wronged you. This can be a powerful way to shift your focus from negativity to positivity.