Did Jesus Really Say That? The Best of Enemies

Matthew 5:43-44 “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.”

One of the most popular bible verses in the world is John 3:16. People hold up this verse at ball games, put it on bumper stickers, and have committed it to memory.  But what about Matthew 5:44?  I have yet to see anyone hold up that verse at a game: “LOVE YOUR ENEMIES!”  (Especially at a Browns-Steelers Game!)

This is a challenging teaching for sure and one that Jesus teaches in his most famous message, the Sermon On The Mount.  Practically, Jesus gives us two ways to care for those who oppose us.  One way is to pray for those who persecute us.  Pray that God blesses them and that we cannot stay bitter to them.  Also, Jesus says that we should do our best for them.  If they force us to go one mile, go two. 

How about you?  When someone opposes you what is your first reaction?  Do you naturally want what is best for them or do you seek revenge?  Is there an enemy in your life that you need to pray for today?  How can you serve them even when they take advantage of you? 

Take a moment to read and reflect on Matthew 5:38-48.  How can you practically love your enemies today?