Saturday January 5, 2013

It’s hard to hate someone when you are doing something good for him.

 

Read Matthew 5:43-48

 

During the US civil war, hatred became entrenched between the North and the 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 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 on the sermon of 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” (vv 44-45)

 

We have encountered 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 prayer 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 people can you start befriending?

 

Prayer:

¥ Pray for the work of Shiloh Church Ministries in India. Pray that God would provide for them all they need to continue serving, reaching out and blessing the poor and needy. Pray that many more would continue to come to Christ in repentance and faith.

¥ Pray that God would allow you and every one in your congregation to see the real battle that is not against flesh and blood. Pray that God would equip you and everyone in your congregation for the battle.