8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. We should never forget that we were once enemies of God and alienated from Him yet He loved us: 6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. If you are like me, you want to shake them and tell them to snap out of it! (Can you tell mercy is not one of my Spiritual gifts?) We are not to respond in like manner but as Christ would – loving to all. Jesus is telling us to love them through this. They are probably craving a kind word or deed or perhaps even a hug. It is usually not us that they are upset with but something that has occurred in their life. Oftentimes, people in our paths that are just plain hateful or rude are dealing with some sort of hurt or insecurity which makes them behave in that way. Our words can be sweet like a honeycomb, turning away anger and bringing healing to the hearer. Prov 15:1 (NIV)Ģ4 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. Prov 25:15 (NIV) 1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Have you ever noticed how kindness and love dispels much anger? I love the following proverbs: 15 Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone. We are to be a channel of God’s love to all – including our enemies or those who have not been particularly kind to us. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. He wants our actions to mimic those of the Father: 43 "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. Anyone besides me convicted yet? I sometimes find it hard to do good deeds with no expectations towards those I love much less to my enemies! But that is exactly what Jesus is calling for us to do. In the above verses, Jesus teaches us to do good and benevolent deeds towards our enemies hoping or expecting nothing for oneself in return.
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