Never Be Like Your Enemy

Never Be Like Your Enemy
Devotion by Pastor Alexander Redd
February 5, 2024

"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:43).

We often encounter people seeking to bring us down, hurt us, or lead us astray. These enemies may take various forms—individuals, circumstances, or even our own internal struggles. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. We are called to never be like our enemies.

The Bible teaches us that our enemies are not just flesh and blood but also spiritual forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12). Therefore, our battle is not against human beings but against the evil that seeks to destroy our souls. We must not adopt our enemies' tactics, attitudes, or mindsets in this spiritual warfare.

So, what virtues can help you rise above your enemies? Reflect on three key virtues that can guide you in the spiritual growth of awareness.

1. Love: Jesus taught us to love our enemies and to pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). By loving your enemies, you demonstrate the transformative power of God's love in our lives. Love breaks the cycle of hatred and vengeance and opens the door for reconciliation and healing. When you choose to love instead of hate, you reflect the character of Christ and become agents of His peace in a broken world.

2. Forgiveness: One of the most powerful virtues you can learn to do is forgiveness. When you forgive your enemies, you release yourself from the burden of anger, resentment, and bitterness. Jesus exemplified this virtue by praying for forgiveness for those who crucified Him (Luke 23:34). Forgiveness allows you to break free from the chains of the past. It opens up the possibility of restoration and redemption.

3. Integrity: You are called to walk in integrity in a world that often values compromise and deceit. The psalmist says, "The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in trustworthy people" (Proverbs 12:22). Your integrity is a powerful testimony to the world, demonstrating your commitment to truth, honesty, and righteousness. By living with integrity, you show that your identity is rooted in Christ and not in the ways of the world.

As you seek to never be like your enemies, remember that you have been equipped with the Holy Spirit, who empowers you to live out these virtues. Through prayer, reading God's Word, and fellowship with other believers, you can continually grow in these virtues and become vessels of God's love, forgiveness, and integrity.

Can you be known for your love, forgiveness, and integrity so that others may be drawn to the hope and transformation found in our Savior Jesus?

As children of God, we are called to be a light in the darkness. Therefore, these virtues must shine brightly, showing the world the power of Christ's love and our hope in Him.


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