![]() ![]() The Bible tells us that “a soft answer turns away wrath.” Often, we try to make sure our “revenge” is worse than what we have received. We like to get revenge in a way that somehow causes trouble for someone who has offended us. What about blessing those who despitefully use you? And praying for those who persecute you, or misuse you? Our natural tendencies are to do the opposite of this. The Bible calls this, “heap coals of fire on head.” What better way can there be to overcome evil than to overcome it by doing good? If your enemy is thirsty, give him something to drink.Do not take revenge on your enemy for doing wrong to you.This passage lists three things you can do: How do you love your enemy and do good to those who hate you? Read Romans 12:19-21. When the Roman soldiers nailed Him to the cross, He called out to God, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Jesus not only taught us to do these things, but also gave us an example of how to do them. But when we read passages like the one in Luke 6, the challenge comes a lot closer home. It is one thing to say that real Christians should love their enemies. Or, as the New Living Translation says, if he asks for your coat, offer him your shirt as well! If someone steals your cloak, offer him your tunic as well. For instance, if someone hits you on the one cheek, offer that he can hit you on the other cheek as well. It adds some practical examples to illustrate what loving your enemies means. Luke 6:27-36 is an expanded version of Matthew 5:44. We can do this only if we have the love of Jesus in our hearts. This verse is part of the Sermon on the Mount, and you can read it in context hereĪnyone can love people who love them back. “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 5:44) ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |