"But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." Matthew 5:44
In His sermon on the mount, Jesus challenges His followers to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
At the time He spoke those words the Roman Empire occupied Jerusalem and the Jews were under severe persecution. So, we can only imagine how shocking His words would have been to those gathered on the mount.
Although Jesus spoke those words more than 2,000 years ago, His commandment to love our enemies and pray for them has not changed. If we are honest, we'll admit that this is very difficult to do.
Loving those who love us is easy to do. Even an unbeliever can do that. But loving our enemies? That takes things to a whole other level.
Lately I've been thinking a lot about this because we are beginning to see signs of hatred toward Christians, even in our own country. If this trend continues -- as it most likely will -- we need to be grounded in our faith, and purpose to follow the Lord Jesus and do what He has instructed us to do. Honestly, I can't do this in my own strength. I need the power of the Holy Spirit to empower me to love my enemies and to pray for them. Can I get a witness?
One thing I know for sure. If the Lord commands us to do something, He will give us everything we need to enable us to do it. All we need do is ask Him.
Today's music video Love Your Enemies by Kyle Sigmon reinforces what Jesus told us to do. I pray it will be an encouragement to you.
Please continue to keep Israel in your prayers.
I love you, I'm thinking of you, and I'm praying for you.
Good Morning! Have you stepped back from posting on your blog other than Monday morning inspiration? I thought maybe I was missing your posts but can't find additional posts. Thanks. Dee
ReplyDeleteHi Dee! Yes, I use this blog for Monday Morning Encouragement now. And I use my Youtube channel for home and garden posts, with a few minutes of spiritual encouragement at the end of each post. I've found that I can reach far more people with my Youtube channel than I can with my blog. And I have much more interaction with my viewers, which I love! This all seems to work well for me. Thanks for your question.♥
DeleteYou're right, Nancy. This is a really difficult thing, and I can't even imagine how much harder it can get when under real, severe persecution. Like you said, I can't do this alone and need the help of the Holy Spirit and a constant reminder that I MUST do it. The day will probably come when what we're going through in our everyday lives will look pretty easy in comparison. Maybe the Lord will take us before, but if not, we do need to be ready to stand strong in our faith by the power of God. It's a sobering thought, but I'm glad you posted this reminder.
ReplyDeleteIt's a reminder to me, too, Karen! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I totally agree.♥
DeleteI do believe that life is going to get harder for Christians as time goes on. I cannot believe the antisemitism that is taking place toward Jews right now, all over the world. How sad that people are like this, but it was foretold in the Bible. We need to stand firm in our faith and support Israel as they are just trying to survive in a world that hates them.
ReplyDeleteBlessings and hugs,
Betsy
So true, Betsy. Thank you.♥
DeleteLoving your enemies is probably the hardest thing for any of us to do even with Jesus wants that and we need to follow through. I almost always feel sorry for enemies because they are doing evil and not loving themselves. Hope the ways of hope and forgiveness will conquer some of this evil. Have a good week Nancy.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Kris
Thanks, Kris. I rest in the fact that God sees it all and He will make all things right in His time. God bless you, my friend!♥
Delete. I always find comfort when I read your posts and watch your youtube channel. Thank you for sharing the bible and your lovely home. Love & Prayers. Darlene
ReplyDeleteDarlene, thank you. Knowing you find comfort from my blog and Youtube channel is one of the best compliments I could receive. Praise God! ♥
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