Matthew 5:44-45

Matthew 5:44-45

Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.

God’s Word is often countercultural, compelling us toward actions that don’t come naturally or easily. In these verses, Jesus taught the importance of loving our enemies. God calls us to love and pray for them instead of harboring hatred, bitterness, or resentment. When we do this, we reflect the heart of God to them. Jesus himself was betrayed, mocked, and even nailed to a cross, but he responded by loving and praying for those who opposed him. Perhaps someone in your life is hard to love or is actively working to make your life difficult. Start by praying for this person and asking God to help you see them as he does.