When the Bible speaks of love, it’s not just for a few specific groups or people, love means for everyone!
  “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”

It is easy when it is someone who loves us as well, but what about those who hate us? Who are rude, condescending, and downright mean to us? No one wants to be treated like that.

A quick peek at the dictionary gives us the following synonyms for the word spiteful:

  • Malicious
  • Hurtful
  • Vindictive
  • Vengeful

How can we respond kindly when someone is hurling all that nastiness our way? The only way we can do so is because of the love of God inside us.

It is not in us as humans to respond with blessings and doing good to someone who has been quite the opposite to us.

But…there is that word again! With God it is possible. Not just possible, but expected. Our Lord literally turned the other cheek to his accusers and tormentors. How then can we respond any differently?

Choosing Love

Just this week I encountered a situation where I had to choose. Am I going to respond with the same negativity that has been projected towards me? Or am I going to calmly respond in kindness?

It took a short walk and a little prayer. However, God’s love inside allowed me to respond in a way that honored Him. 

L.O.V.E. – Loving others; very encouraging.  Loving this unlovable person encouraged me. It reminded me that I do not have to worry about getting back at someone or getting even.

God is my refuge and hope. He shelters me. And He alone can judge actions.

My job is simply to LOVE.

Ammie Senn