#LoveYourEnemies

[anastpaul]

One Minute Reflection – 16 February – But I say to you, Love your enemies …

One Minute Reflection – 16 February – Friday after Ash Wednesday – The Feast of the Sacred Crown of Thorns of Our Lord Jesus Christ – Isa 58:1-9; Matthew 5:43-48; 6:1-4 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/ “But I say to you, Love your enemies …” Matthew 5:44 REFLECTION – “Let us pay attention, all my brothers, to what the Lord says: “Love your enemies and do good to those who hate…

[unfoldingmoments]

Your Secret Power

HUMILITY Humility is the way you open the door to a move of God in your life. Humility is earth’s invitation to heaven & God always respond to the humble heart. Humility is an inner awareness of my own frailty and God’s power. Humility is my secret power because in humility I connect to God’s power. 3 statements to think about when you think about humility: 1. I don’t need to win, I need to obey God. If you enter every relationship trying to define winners and losers  you’ll always loose. If you enter every relationship with competitive winning and losing spirit, you’ve already lost. I don’t need you to lose in order for me to win. There’s enough blessing for everybody. Prayer and the word are required for a healthy relationship with God. Humility is required to have a healthy relationship with others. I’ll never have a healthy relationship unless I donor and walk in humility. Love for Enemies Luke 6:27-36

27 “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29 If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them. 30 Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. 31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.

32 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. 35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. Galatians 6: Humility looks like loving, doing good, blessing, praying, offering, giving.

I’m going to choose the high road of humility which will look like weakness but it is really meekness. 2. I don’t need to be right, I need to obey God. Take Up Your Cross

23 Then he said to them all, “If anyone wants to follow after[d] me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily,[e] and follow me.

Jesus was wronged in the cross, for the sake of a relationship Principle: You will not always be in the wrong but that doesn’t mean you always need to be right. Choose your fights. Sometimes just celebrate someone try something. Just because you’re not wrong, that doesn’t mean you have to be right. I wanna be right. I am on the cross, I’m choosing a better way, I am choosing my relationship over my need to prove you wrong. Day to day I don’t have to push everything, I don’t have to get my point across all the time. Don’t get a fight for couple of weeks. It’s not that easy but it’s simple. 3. I don’t need vengeance, I need to obey God When you are mistreated, you feel powerless/ weak Vengeance will hurt me and people around me. Romans 12:18  17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Give careful thought to do what is honorable in everyone’s eyes. 18 If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for God’s wrath, because it is written, Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay,[d] says the Lord. 20 But

If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. For in so doing you will be heaping fiery coals on his head.[e]

21 Do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good. Pastor Jabin recounted a traumatic bullying incident from when he was ten. As a child engrossed in Lego, he became a target for a group of older, intimidating bullies. He described them as towering over him, their size and aggression making them terrifying. They physically assaulted him with punches to the chest and body, leaving him deeply traumatized. The experience fueled a burning desire for revenge, and he vowed to one day be strong enough to fight back. This incident left him with deep-seated anger and resentment. If you’re not careful ,you’ll allow moment a present day reality, If I am not careful, I can still treat people and make decisions from and response from from that little 10 years old who felt so powerless. I’m going to put up walls,   My temptations will be 40 yo man of God with emotion of bully 10 yo kids I have to refuse vengeance or I’ll end up hurting people who never hurt me, trying to get revenge on people who can’t even remember. But I still feel what I felt. If I stay love before God I can’t fall Genesis 50 Joseph’s Kindness

15 When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said to one another, “If Joseph is holding a grudge against us, he will certainly repay us for all the suffering we caused him.”

16 So they sent this message to Joseph, “Before he died your father gave a command: 17 ‘Say this to Joseph: Please forgive your brothers’ transgression and their sin—the suffering they caused you.’ Therefore, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.” Joseph wept when their message came to him. 18 His brothers also came to him, bowed down before him, and said, “We are your slaves!”

19 But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20 You planned evil against me; God planned it for good to bring about the present result—the survival of many people. 21 Therefore don’t be afraid. I will take care of you and your children.” And he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.[b]

Ref: Your Secret Power | Jabin Chavez | City Light Church https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbeMfkQBqKM

[clarissaxrose1212]

We should love everyone no matter what because even our adversaries are still God’s creations too, and He still loves us all equally too!!!!! The overall hope we should have is for everyone to be saved, so if someone is not on the path to being saved, we can pray for them to find their way to God too.

🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️🙌🙌🙌

#PraiseGod #PraiseTheLord #GodIsGood #Christian #LoveGod #LoveJesus #LoveEveryone #Love #FaithInGod #ChristianFaith #Faith #HopeInGod #Hope #BelieveInGod #BelieveInJesus #GodLovesUs #LoveYourNeighbor #LoveYourEnemies #DoGoodToEveryone #PrayForEveryone #Pray #GiveThanksToGod #Repent #Forgive #BibleQuote #ChristianQuote #Quote #BibleVerse #Matthew5 #Matthew5v44to45 #KJV #🙏 #❤️ #🙌

[coptorthodox]

You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But 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. Matthew 5:43-44

[gmworking]

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[azspot]

And yet – to put it bluntly – if Dirk Willems is a fool, it’s hard to escape the conclusion that the martyrs through the ages all the way back to Jesus Christ himself were fools too. I don’t think that we can lay claim to Christianity if we reject some of Jesus’ clearest and most unambiguous commands to us. Forgiveness and love of enemies are central enough to our faith that in the prayer that Jesus himself gave us, the prayer that as an Anglican priest bound to the daily office I recite at least five times a day, our own forgiveness is linked to our forgiveness of those who wrong us. To follow Jesus here might be a deep trial – many patristic commentators on the Sermon on the Mount dwell on just how little we like loving our enemies – and it might indeed be a trial that is unevenly distributed among people. But it is what we are called to do, and how could we fail to obey our good and gracious Savior?

Foolhardy Wisdom

[justtruthfulme]

Check out this post… "Love Your Enemies ".

[anastpaul]

Quote/s of the Day – 12 July – 'Love your enemies'

Quote/s of the Day – 12 July – “The Month of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus” – St John Gualbert (c985-1073) Abbot – Ecclesiasticus 45:1-6, Matthew 5:43-48 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/ “But I say to you,love your enemies …”Matthew 5:44 St John Gualbert said to his enemy,“I cannot refuse what you askin Christ’s Name.I grant you your lifeand I give you my friendship.Pray that…

[newprophets]

Exploring the Sermon on the Plain Radical Love and Wisdom in Luke 6 Good morning, everyone! Today, we explore the Sermon on the Plain, a powerful teaching by Jesus found in Luke 6. This sermon redefines the path to a godly life through the Beatitudes, love, judgment, and wisdom. Jesus begins with blessings that uplift the humble and marginalized: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God" (Luke 6:20). He contrasts these blessings with warnings to the complacent: "Woe to you who are rich, for you have already received your comfort" (Luke 6:24). One of the most challenging teachings is to love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you (Luke 6:27-28). This radical love sets a new standard for His followers. Jesus also addresses judgment, urging us not to judge or condemn others but to forgive and be generous. He uses the metaphor of the blind leading the blind, emphasizing self-awareness: remove the plank from your own eye before addressing the speck in someone else’s eye (Luke 6:39-42). Jesus further teaches about recognizing people by their actions, comparing good and bad trees: "No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit" (Luke 6:43). He concludes with the parable of the wise and foolish builders, highlighting the importance of practicing His teachings. Those who do are like a man building his house on a solid foundation, while those who don't are like a man building on ground without a foundation, which collapses in a storm (Luke 6:46-49).

[unfoldingmoments]

Love the unlovable

1. Reflecting God’s Nature

Jesus taught that God’s love is unconditional and extends to all people, regardless of their actions or character. In Matthew 5:45, He says, "He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous." This illustrates that God’s love is not limited to those who are "good" or "lovable" but is given freely to everyone.

By loving the unlovable and our enemies, we reflect God’s character and demonstrate His love to the world. It’s a call to embody the divine nature of unconditional love.

2. Breaking the Cycle of Hatred and Violence

Jesus’ teaching to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44) is a radical departure from the human tendency to retaliate or hold grudges. By loving those who harm us, we break the cycle of hatred and violence.

This teaching challenges us to respond to evil with good, creating the possibility for transformation and reconciliation. It’s not about excusing wrongdoing but about overcoming evil with good (Romans 12:21).

3. Transforming Hearts and Relationships

Loving the unlovable and our enemies is not just for their benefit but also for ours. It transforms our hearts, freeing us from bitterness, anger, and resentment. It helps us grow in compassion, humility, and spiritual maturity.

This kind of love has the power to soften hearts and build bridges, even in the most broken relationships. It opens the door for healing and restoration.

4. A Witness to the World

Jesus said that our love for one another would be a sign of our discipleship (John 13:35). Loving the unlovable and our enemies is a powerful testimony to the world of the transformative power of God’s love.

It challenges societal norms and demonstrates a higher standard of living—one that is rooted in grace and selflessness rather than self-interest or revenge.

5. Following Jesus’ Example

Jesus Himself modeled this teaching perfectly. He loved and forgave those who betrayed, rejected, and crucified Him. On the cross, He prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34).

By loving our enemies, we follow in His footsteps and participate in His mission of redemption and reconciliation.

6. A Call to Radical Love

Jesus’ command to love our enemies is not based on feelings but on a deliberate choice to act in love, even when it’s difficult. It’s a call to radical love that goes beyond natural human inclinations.

This kind of love is only possible through the power of the Holy Spirit, who enables us to love as Jesus loves.

7. Eternal Perspective

Jesus’ teaching reminds us that everyone is created in God’s image and has inherent worth, regardless of their actions. Loving the unlovable reflects an eternal perspective—seeing people as God sees them and valuing their potential for redemption.

It also aligns us with God’s ultimate plan for reconciliation and restoration of all things (Colossians 1:20).

Practical Application:

Pray for those who hurt you: Jesus specifically instructs us to pray for our enemies (Matthew 5:44). Prayer softens our hearts and invites God to work in their lives.

Show kindness: Small acts of kindness can have a profound impact, even on those who seem unlovable.

Forgive: Forgiveness is not condoning wrongdoing but releasing the burden of resentment and trusting God to bring justice in His time.

Seek reconciliation: Where possible, take steps to restore broken relationships, always guided by love and humility.

In summary, Jesus’ teaching to love the unlovable and our enemies is a call to live out the highest form of love—agape love—which is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional. It challenges us to rise above our natural instincts and embody the transformative power of God’s love in a broken world. This teaching is not easy, but it is central to the Christian faith and has the potential to change lives, relationships, and communities.

——

When you're still hurt by someone and struggling to forgive them, it's important to acknowledge that forgiveness is a process, not an instant event. It’s okay to feel hurt, but holding onto that pain can lead to bitterness and hinder your spiritual and emotional well-being. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when you’re still hurting and how to pray for the strength to forgive:

1. Acknowledge Your Pain

Be honest with yourself and God about how you feel. It’s okay to admit that you’re hurt, angry, or disappointed. God already knows your heart, and He invites you to bring your raw emotions to Him (Psalm 62:8).

Example prayer: "Lord, I’m hurting because of what happened. I feel [angry/betrayed/sad], and I don’t know how to move past this. Please help me process these emotions in a healthy way."

2. Surrender Your Hurt to God

Give your pain to God and ask Him to heal your heart. Holding onto the hurt only gives it power over you. Trust that God can handle your emotions and bring healing.

Example prayer: "Father, I give this pain to You. I can’t carry it anymore. Please heal my heart and help me release this burden to You."

3. Ask for God’s Perspective

Pray for the ability to see the person through God’s eyes. Remember that they, too, are a flawed human being in need of grace, just like you. This doesn’t excuse their actions, but it can help you humanize them and soften your heart.

Example prayer: "God, help me see this person as You see them. Remind me that they are Your creation, and You love them just as You love me."

4. Pray for the Person Who Hurt You

Jesus commands us to pray for those who hurt us (Matthew 5:44). Praying for the person who caused you pain can be incredibly freeing. It doesn’t mean you’re excusing their behavior, but you’re releasing them to God’s care and justice.

Example prayer: "Lord, I pray for [name]. I ask that You work in their heart and life. Bless them, guide them, and help them grow. I release them to You and trust You to handle this situation."

5. Ask for the Strength to Forgive

Forgiveness is not something you can always do on your own. Ask God to give you the strength and grace to forgive, even when it feels impossible.

Example prayer: "God, I know forgiveness is Your will, but I’m struggling to let go. Please give me the strength to forgive [name] as You have forgiven me. Help me to release this hurt and choose love instead of bitterness."

6. Take Steps Toward Healing

Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting or pretending the hurt didn’t happen. It means choosing to let go of the desire for revenge and trusting God to bring justice and healing.

If possible, consider setting healthy boundaries to protect yourself from further harm. Forgiveness doesn’t always mean reconciliation, especially if the relationship is toxic or unsafe.

7. Meditate on God’s Forgiveness Toward You

Reflect on how much God has forgiven you. When we realize the depth of God’s grace toward us, it becomes easier to extend that same grace to others (Ephesians 4:32).

Example prayer: "Lord, thank You for forgiving me of my sins. Help me to remember Your mercy and extend that same forgiveness to [name]."

8. Be Patient with Yourself

Forgiveness is a journey, and it’s okay if it takes time. Don’t beat yourself up for still feeling hurt. Keep bringing your feelings to God and asking for His help.

Example prayer: "Father, I’m still struggling with this, but I trust You to work in my heart. Help me to take one step at a time toward forgiveness and healing."

9. Seek Support if Needed

If the hurt is deep or ongoing, consider seeking support from a trusted friend, counselor, or pastor. Sometimes, talking through your feelings with someone else can help you process and heal.

A Sample Prayer for Forgiveness

Here’s a prayer you can use or adapt:

"Heavenly Father, I come to You with a heavy heart. I’ve been hurt by [name], and the pain feels overwhelming. I know Your Word says to forgive, but I’m struggling to let go. Please heal my heart and help me release this hurt to You. Give me the strength to forgive [name] as You have forgiven me. Help me to see them through Your eyes and to pray for their well-being. Lord, I trust You to bring justice and healing in this situation. Thank You for Your love and grace that sustains me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen."

Final Thought

Forgiveness is not about condoning the wrong done to you or pretending it didn’t hurt. It’s about freeing yourself from the burden of bitterness and trusting God to handle the situation. As you take steps toward forgiveness, remember that God is with you every step of the way, providing the strength and grace you need. Over time, His love will heal your heart and help you move forward in freedom.

[redleavesfallen]

Love those that treat you right. Pray for those that do not...

and go get an ice-cream

🍦

[clarissaxrose1212]

Even though it can be so difficult for us, we really should forgive everyone and pray for those who hurt us. God loves all of us as His creations, so even if we don’t like what someone did to us, we should still love each other too. We can also pray for help with forgiving people and loving everyone!

🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️🙌🙌🙌

#PraiseGod #PraiseTheLord #GodIsGood #OurHeavenlyFather #Christian #LoveGod #LoveJesus #LoveEveryone #Love #FaithInGod #ChristianFaith #Faith #HopeInGod #Hope #BelieveInGod #BelieveInJesus #GodLovesUsAll #LoveYourNeighbor #LoveYourEnemies #BlessThemThatCurseYou #DoGood #PrayForThoseWhoHurtYou #Pray #GiveThanksToGod #Repent #Forgive #BibleQuote #ChristianQuote #Quote #BibleVerse #Matthew5 #Matthew5v44to45 #KJV #🙏 #❤️ #🙌

[theformulaforsuccess]

Join Douglas Vandergraph as he delves into Jesus' teachings on handling negativity and hate. Discover the Christian response to haters, learn how to love your enemies, and explore the Biblical perspective on hate. Understand how Jesus speaks on forgiveness and how to overcome negativity with faith. This discussion sheds light on Christian love and hate, emphasizing Jesus' message on love and guiding you in responding to criticism as a Christian.

Go to my YouTube channel for the full discussion! https://www.youtube.com/@DouglasVandergraph — Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspirational content!

#JesusTeachings #LoveYourEnemies #ChristianResponse #BiblicalPerspective #Forgiveness #OvercomingNegativity #FaithInAction #ChristianLove #JesusMessage #RespondingToCriticism

[zukkartwork]

【LOVE YOUR ENEMIES】

#loveyourenemies #draw #paint #illustration #artwork #zukkartwork