Question of the Day

When Kenneth and Gloria started their journey of faith they had questions too—lots of them! So, we've compiled the most frequently asked questions by people like you—people who earnestly desire to find God's answers to the practical, real-life challenges of everyday living. We have a new question every day, so check back often!

How should I deal with my enemies?
How should I deal with my enemies?
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This can be difficult because the flesh has its own ideas! But Matthew 5:44 gives us a clear answer.

1. Love your enemies. How do you love them? It begins in your heart. You don’t have to run up and hug your enemy every time you see him—just begin by changing your heart. One way to begin renewing your mind in this area is to pray this simple prayer whenever you think of your enemy: “God, You love ____, so I love _____. I forgive him, and I ask You to help me love him with the God kind of love.” As you continue to pray this prayer as a declaration of faith, you will begin to feel something transforming in your heart and moving over into love.

2. Pray for your enemies. Praying for those who have wronged you will enable you to release the hurt, anger and unforgiveness in your heart, and receive His peace. It keeps you from the bondage that comes with holding a grudge and allows the flow of blessings to continue freely in your life. A mature believer will pray for his enemies—not talk about them and criticize them. Jesus had plenty of enemies, and His response was always to pray. 

3. Do good to your enemies. It takes a lot of courage, humility and love to do good to those who mistreat you, and it isn’t easy! But when you’re filled with the love of God, you can do it! Any fool can lash out and fight back against enemies, but Jesus has instructed us to do good to them instead. In doing so, you become a powerful witness. If you know someone who hates you or has wronged you, look for the opportunity to do good to them. If you see a need, meet that need. If they need help, be the first one to offer it. Buy them a gift. Pray for them. This is how believers walking in the God kind of love should act toward our enemies—regardless of what they deserve. It’s what Jesus taught us to do, and His ways always bring blessing.

In addition to these things, be sure you take the time to forgive, and let God avenge you. Forgiving someone isn’t a special favor to your enemies. It isn’t justifying what they’ve done, and it doesn’t even indicate a restored relationship. In fact, forgiveness isn’t something that happens between you and another person—it is an actual transaction between you and God. It is a quiet, personal transformation in your heart, and it gives God room to take care of justice on your behalf.