~ Love Your Enemies ~ Matthew 5:44 – “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” – King James Bible
We’ve heard this verse throughout our lives, whether or not we are a part of any religious organization, and yet, it seems to be one that is so misunderstood by many. If someone chooses to become your enemy, as free will allows, Loving our enemy does not mean allowing ourselves to be trampled on. Please allow me to share my heart thoughts on this very important life lesson.
To “Love, bless, do good, and pray for your enemies” does not mean to allow them to hurt or mistreat you in any way. To Love your enemy does not mean to stand there in silence and watch someone hurt or bring harm to you, a child, animal or even to this incredible planet. To Love our enemy does not mean that we are to keep those in our lives and environment who would be unsafe or unhealthy for us. This simply means, that even when we ‘need’ to Love from a ‘distance’ those who have done us wrong, those who have been cruel, unsafe, or unhealthy, that we simply choose Love, not hate. That we choose forgiveness. That we not hold bitterness or resentment in our heart. Love is a choice. To Love or to hate… is always a choice.
We are to “pray for them”… “bless them”, and “do good to them”… and (from a distance) by sending Love and wishing them well, by truly forgiving, by praying for them with a heart that is sincere, we ARE blessing AND doing good to them.
And please remember to truly LOVE YOURSELF as well… this means allowing only beautiful and Loving treatment into your life. It means forgiving yourself as well… it means praying for and sending blessings to YOU as well.
Love,
Jamie
By Jamie Barone
Divine Inspiration 