Earlier today during my quiet moment, I was meditating on a portion of the scriptures that is to be found in verse forty four, the fifth chapter of the book of Mathew: “…LOVE your ENEMY and PRAY for those who PERSECUTE YOU…”(emphasis mine). And I was somewhat struck by that statement-to LOVE and PRAY for my enemies! Many people would rather invoke a CURSE and pray for HELL FIRE on their enemies.
I am certain that you have an enemy, if not several. I really don’t want to self-appoint myself to educate you on who an enemy is, but allow me to outline for you the following: Anyone who wants to hurt you is your enemy; anybody who positions themselves to oppose you is an enemy; anyone who curses you is your enemy; those who hate you are your enemies; those who mistreat you are your enemies; those who despitefully use you are your enemies and those who are hostile towards you are your enemies too.
So why in the world would Jesus tell us to LOVE and PRAY for such people! I will tell you, and this is the lesson I want to share with you: It is because we are THE VICTORS of OUR OPPONENTS. Their unkind stinging rebuke spurs our nobler endeavours within us which catapults us towards our greatness and incredible success. Without their opposition, we can and would never fortify our resolve and brace ourselves up against their overwhelming ill will towards us.
I dare say, and submit to you, that your enemies are actually your best friends in disguise. They tell you the ‘ugly’ truth when your friends flatter. Your friends will rarely give you a rebuke but will instead try to cover your faults. Thankfully, our enemies drag out all our weakness into the light without mercy. It is the wise Solomon who once said, ‘Better an open rebuke than hidden love’. Their biting sarcasm and scathing remarks are mirrors which reveal us to ourselves. They reach depths before untouched in us and we ‘catch’ the urge and motivation to redeem ourselves from their scorning. That is why your cup runs over because the table is prepared for you in the presence of your enemies. Go ahead right now to love and pray for your enemies!