Do you love your enemies???

 Sometimes people are mean! Life is hard.  It doesn't seem fair how people treat you.  I experience it. But what does God say?

 Sometimes this is soooo hard!!! But it isn't a suggestion from God... he TELLS us to!
I think enemy is such a strong word... like hate. To me an enemy is someone who wants to do me harm. I cannot believe I have enemies... or hate in my life. I don't see anyone as an "enemy" ... maybe people see me that way though.  I've wronged people ...and have been forgiven by God. This is where the love of God comes in.... to forgive others, forgive myself, and pray for the person who hates me....  and the people I have forgiven but I need to let go of what they did or are still doing in my life. I do believe there are times I automatically think the worst of certain people...things that are probably not true. I believe others do that to me too.  I have to remember MOST people have good intentions. And like Dr. Phil says "People don't think about you half as much as you think!" lol! When these thoughts come to mind I need to pray for them! My friend, Ernestine told me once when you are angry with someone to stop and pray for that person! It is tough... but she was right! I miss her!There are so many privileges of being a child of God... forgiveness, salvation, a future in heaven with Him, the gift of the Holy Spirit, a personal relationship with God, and victory when Christ comes. But I think another huge privilege is we get the opportunity to act toward those who dislike and hate us in a way that reflects the character of God himself. Anyone can return hate for hate, but it takes a child of God to return a blessing and a prayer for their enemies. Am I willing to let God shine through me???

Matthew 5:43-48 (New International Version)

Love for Enemies

     “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father
in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."