Loving Even When It’s Hard

Perhaps few others understand the concept of the enemy, as does the veteran who has locked eyes with those who are ready to do violence against them. This week’s Scripture passages speak of these enemies, yes. But it also speaks of “anyone who mistreats you.” Beyond the frontlines of battle, we all encounter these individuals in our everyday lives.

Your bitter teenager, the harsh commander, the bully on your kid’s bus, the petty neighbor, the incompetent political leader, the judgmental in-law…

And what does the Bible tell us to do when we are mistreated by others?

Love them.

Pray for them.

Prayer is not a magic chant to rain down curses on people. Rather, prayer opens the door to the one who can change people’s hearts, the one who can change circumstances and orders and events, and the one who promises to avenge wrongdoing. Prayer invites God to control the situation. Prayer changes things.

And the not-so-secret: Prayer changes us. Prayer forces us to address our own impotence and God’s sovereignty. As we wrestle in prayer for our enemy, we are confronted with our own need for mercy. When we ask for God’s help, we get it in the form of strength and courage, and humility. And as we pray for our enemies, we begin to see them as God does. Our compassion grows. Our love for others sparks anew.

You have heard people say, “Love your neighbors and hate your enemies.” But I tell you to love your enemies and pray for anyone who mistreats you.
Matthew 5:43-44 (CEV)

When we teach our children to love their enemies or those who mistreat them, we help them see what Christ has done for us. He loved us even while we were still hostile toward him, so much so that he died to save us. How am I supposed to love the brother who irritates me so badly? How do I show kindness to a grumpy parent? Why should I care about a friend who is being mean?

The truth is we must learn to love our enemies because Christ first loved us, and he instructs us to love all people.

But seeking God’s intervention in the relationship can change everything. Pray for your enemies, and you will be amazed to find how they change or how God changes you to handle them.

As we observe Veteran’s Day, we honor our fellow citizens and family members who come face-to-face with the evilest of enemies. We thank them for their bravery. Let us also be brave in the Holy Spirit’s power, choosing to pray for those who hurt us. Choosing to love. Loving our enemies does not mean we continue to let them hurt us; it is not loving to let them be cruel to us. Instead, praying for your enemies is how we can give the situation over to the Lord and let him begin a work of healing in us.

PRAY

Lord, sometimes I would rather take revenge on those who hurt me or my family. But I will trust you when you say to love them and pray for them. Help us to love. Amen.

TIME TO TALK

Conversation starter for kids: Provides you with questions and prompts to facilitate a time of applicable discussion with children to lead them towards knowing God and His Word more deeply.

Question(s): Is there someone who is mistreating you right now? How can we pray for them today?

KEEP IT GOING

Related passages: These additional verses will help parents expand Scriptural knowledge and place on the armor of God’s Word to tackle each day. Swipe to read the passages today.

Romans 12:14

James 5:16