“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
This command from Jesus sounds extraordinarily difficult. How can we love those who hurt, insult, or even betray us? Isn’t that contrary to our natural instincts? But this is precisely the uniqueness of Christ’s teaching. He does not call us to live like the world, but to reflect God’s unconditional love.
Loving your enemies does not mean allowing evil to happen, or turning a blind eye to the wounds they cause. Loving your enemies means choosing not to seek revenge, not to harbor hatred, and to continue praying for their well-being.
What are some practical ways to love your enemies?
- Praying for them. This is the first step Jesus taught. Maybe when you pray, you cannot yet sincerely say their names. But start by asking God to change your heart first. Prayer not only moves God, but also softens our hearts.
- Do not repay evil with evil. When slandered, do not respond with gossip. When hurt, do not respond with coldness. Romans 12:17 says, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.”
- Giving space for restoration. Loving your enemies does not mean immediately becoming close again. But we open the door if one day they come with a heart willing to change.
Jesus Himself is the highest example. On the cross, when His enemies crucified Him, He instead cried out, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34). We may not reach that point immediately, but every time we refuse to repay hatred, we are walking in His footsteps.
Loving your enemies is not a sign of weakness, but the strength of divine love that has already loved us while we were still God’s enemies.
