Jesus said, "You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy." 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 5:43-44 NKJV)
Do I have too? Is a question that you hear children ask of their parents when told to do something they would prefer not to do. What about an adult asking this question of God once they have read Matthew 5:43-44. Do I have to love my enemies in real life? In your real life? They may or may not seem quite so devious, but you know who they are. Picture one right now. Then take this challenge: Love that person. Not an easy assignment. Yet Jesus teaches in Matthew that you are to meet that challenge head-on. He said, "Turn hate upside down." It's important to note that Jesus didn't say, "Love evil." He said, "Love people - even those who despise you."
If you have a tough time with this challenge, you're not alone. The people of Jesus' day didn't know what to do with Jesus' love your enemies commandment. It's likely that this sort of radical thinking contributed to the eventual backlash that ultimately sent Jesus to the cross. The Jews had been looking for someone who was a dynamic leader - someone who would soundly defeat their enemies. Instead, they got a radical who taught them to "turn the other cheek" and to "love people who hate you." How can you love someone who hates you? The first step is to recognize that all people are created in God's image. Even those who get on your nerve. God values every person.
Then try to understand why this person is an enemy. Perhaps he or she is being malicious, or simply misdirected. Could it be you did something to cause hurt? Seek to know what drives the wedge between you. If it is within your power, do all you can to remove that wedge. Look for common ground. Enemies are usually formed out of a disagreement in one particular area of life. Put aside that issue for a moment and look for things you can agree on. Focus on these areas in your relationship.
Consider distancing yourself. If there is no reason to be in a relationship with this person, stay away from situations that could be troublesome. Love from a distance is easier than hate in the middle of confrontation. Pray for this person and for wisdom to know how to relate to him or her. Only with God's love is it possible to love your enemies. God's love can look beyond the hurtful actions and into the possibilities of the heart. It can fill in the gaps in your own ability to love.
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