Matthew 5:44
"But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,"
Matthew 5:45
"that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust."
Matthew 5:48
"Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect."
This may be the most challenging teaching in the entire Sermon on the Mount. Jesus commands us to love our enemies. This is not a suggestion—it is a command. Loving only the people who love us back is easy; even people who don't know God do that. But Jesus calls us to something much greater. We are to bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who mistreat us. Why? Because this is what God does. He gives sunshine and rain to everyone—good and evil alike. When we love our enemies, we become most like our Father in heaven. The word "perfect" here means "complete" or "mature." God is calling us to a mature, complete love that excludes no one.
Think of someone who has been unkind or hostile to you. Instead of avoiding them or holding resentment, commit to praying for them every day this week. Ask God to bless them. If an opportunity arises, do something kind for them. This is not about feelings—it is about obedience to Christ. As you pray for your enemies, you may find that God changes your own heart first.
Why is loving our enemies so difficult? Why does Jesus command it?
How does God's love for all people—both good and evil—challenge you?
Who is one "enemy" or difficult person you can begin praying for this week?