Love Our Enemies...Really?

I have heard it taught that people are not our enemy. The devil is our enemy. I agree that the devil is our enemy. But if people are never our enemy, then why did Jesus teach us to love our enemies? He is not asking us to love the devil. An enemy is someone who is against us, opposes us, or is hostile towards us. When we have an enemy encounter, our human nature gets defensive. Our human nature doesn’t feel very loving. And yet, Jesus calls us to love them.

So how then, do we love our enemies? Why would God ask us to do something that is so impossible? I believe it is because he wants to draw us more deeply into himself. What is impossible for us is possible with God. God is good at loving his enemies. He loved us when we were his enemy (Romans 5:10). We are only able to accomplish loving our enemies when we go so deeply into God’s love for us that we are secure in His love. Then we are able to love others together as a team. And then we are free. For some of us, that process can take some time. 

It is important to note, that just because you choose to love your enemy does not mean they will cease being your enemy. They still have free will to choose whether they are for you or against you. Choosing to love someone does not necessarily result in having a reconciled relationship. Reconciliation requires repentance. Love doesn’t require anything of the other person. Love is a condition of the heart. When we choose to love, that love dispels the darkness and our hearts are washed clean.

I invite you to join me in prayer: Father God, I understand that you want me to love my enemies. I also realize that I cannot do that in my own strength. I need your help. You are very good at loving your enemies. You loved me when I was your enemy. Love is who you are! Make me like you. Please fill me full to overflowing with Your love that I may have more of Your love to offer others when I do not have enough of my own. Would you please help me love those who betray me. Please help me love those who reject me. Please help me love those who come against me, speak against me and lead others to also be against me. May your holy love flow through me. For in this I will have complete freedom. Thank you, God!