This article is about finding compassion in challenging relationships. The teachings of Jesus instruct us, HIS followers, to “love your enemies”. (Matthew 5:44) is the passage where these instructions are found. (1 Peter 4:8) Tells us that it is most important that we show deep love for each other. Because loving our fellowman makes up for our own faults, in HIS eyes.
Even family can become enemies when there is a long history of unresolved conflict. This happens when there is a clash of values or personalities that cause division, or lack of respect for each other’s boundaries. Childhood rivalry and animosity can grow into adulthood with a deep ingrained resentment towards other family members. This can sometimes create a ripple effect in our lives, causing us to be angry or defensive with others who may have nothing to do with the initial situation. One can carry around a lifetime of misdirected anger and resentment that is unfairly directed towards innocent people. Seeking relations with God can help us avoid cycles of misplaced emotions, and build more authentic bonds.
Our actions can cause irreparable damage to family relationships and create enemies out of loved ones. These are the most difficult relationships to reconcile and repair. The Bible encourages us to extend grace, even towards our enemies, while always striving for peace in all relationships. Loving a difficult person from a distance can be challenging but sometimes it is a necessary act of self-care to set boundaries and make them known to the person in question. Avoiding certain topics of conversation or choosing not to engage in their negative or hurtful behavior can demonstrate boundaries.
Offer kindness and compassion from a distance by sending thoughtful texts, gifts, or by offering up prayers for their well-being. We don’t always have to abandon them, but rather find a way of showing love, while protecting one’s own emotional health and well-being.
(Luke 6:27-28) is part of a sermon that Jesus is giving to HIS disciples. HE is telling them that they should love their enemies, do good to those who hate, and bless those who curse, while praying for those who mistreat. To you who are listening, HE said, love your enemies in spite of their actions that push you away. HE is providing us with the ability to understand the struggles of others, including those stemming from their inner demons or past experiences. He emphasizes the importance of extending love to all people, whether they are difficult or easy to love.
Matthew 5:44
New International Version
44 “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”
Matthew 5:44
King James Version
44 “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;”
Matthew 5:44
Living Bible
44 “But I say: Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!”
1 Peter 4:8
New International Version
8 “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
1 Peter 4:8
King James Version
8 “And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”
1 Peter 4:8
Living Bible
8 “Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love makes up for many of your faults.”
Luke 6:27-28
New International Version
Love for Enemies
27 “ “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
Luke 6:27-28
King James Version
27 “But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
28 Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.”
Luke 6:27-28
Living Bible
27 “ “Listen, all of you. Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you. 28 Pray for the happiness of those who curse you; implore God’s blessing on those who hurt you.”