Jesus calls us to love and pray for those who oppose us.
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;”Matthew 5:44 (KJV)
What does “Enemies” mean in Matthew 5:44?
Love in this verse translates the Greek agapao, the same word used for loving God. Jesus asks for active goodwill, not for warm feelings toward someone who has wronged us.
Going deeper
This is one of the hardest sayings of Jesus. In a world where people naturally love their friends and resent their enemies, He asks for something completely different. Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you. He is not asking us to pretend that nothing is wrong. He is asking us to respond with a love that goes beyond what is fair.
Notice that each instruction is an action. We may not feel like blessing someone, but we can choose to pray for them, to speak well of them, and to do a kindness when we have the chance. Often our own hearts are changed in the process. Praying for a person is hard to do while holding on to hatred. Think about someone who has hurt or opposed you. Take a few minutes to pray for them by name, asking God to bless them. It is a step toward freedom for both of you.
Reflect
Who has hurt or opposed you, and what would it look like to pray for them by name today?
Pray
Lord Jesus, You loved those who hurt You. Give me Your heart toward those who oppose me, and help me to bless them and pray for them. In Jesus' name, amen.
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