Lord, who is like You, delivering the poor from him who is too strong for him, yes, the poor and the needy from him who plunders him? Fierce witnesses rise up … they reward me evil for good, to the sorrow of my soul. But as for me, when they were sick … my prayer would return to my own heart. I paced about as though he were my friend or brother; I bowed down heavily, as one who mourns for his mother. (Psalm 35:10-14 NKJV)
"Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. … If you love those who love you … if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil." (Luke 6:27-28,32-33,35 NKJV)
"Love your enemies" is more than a nice mantra for Christians. It is more than academic. It is a test of whether we are truly "sons of the Most High," who is kind to the evil as He patiently waits for them to repent.
David’s love and prayer for his enemy was as if for a friend or brother. His enemies caused him great suffering. Jesus enemies did far worse and He gave His life for them. Surely we can show love to those who torture us with mere annoyance.
Oh Father, Your Son’s goodness and love and prayers for us who were once Your enemies has transformed us into Your servants, friends, children. Please make us like Him. Please make us like You.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
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