When we're treated unjustly or betrayed it hurts. It’s especially painful when the treachery comes from family or a close friend or a fellow Christian. I’ve been there. I’m there now. And I'm certain these feelings of betrayal will be part of my future. I know because even the best people can be thoughtless and unkind sometimes.
When we’re wounded by someone who ought to love us, what should we do? Strike back? Withdraw? Get angry or bitter? Never trust again?
The response God asks of us is to love . . . even our enemies. Not easy to do, but He’s clear about this. In Luke 6:32-36 we're told, “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Convicting words. When I consider Christ on the cross, praying for mercy for those who cursed him—loving them and dying for them, I know what I must do. I must love. Is it easy? No. Is it spontaneous? Sometimes. Is it possible? Yes. God makes all things possible.
Allow the Lord to open your hearts. Love one another, forgive one another, be merciful to each other. Christ is our example. May His way be our way.
Trust in Him and He will create a new heart in you.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
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Great Message, Miss Bonnie. Keep 'em coming lady. God seems to use you in instrumenting what I need.
ReplyDeleteI have so much anger for the Democrats and Obama in what they are doing at our Capitol...but hey, God is in control and it is so difficult for me to pray for the leaders, but I needed your message about the forgiveness. Thanks Barb
Thank you, Barb. I'm always so glad to hear from you. And it's so great to know that what God is sharing with me is helpful to others.
ReplyDeleteYep, our government is a mess. All the more reason to pray for them. Now, praying without malice, that's not easy, but we can do it. God is so much greater than our worries, our anger, or our hurts.
Blessings to you,
Bonnie