Want some freedom, peace, and liberty? Think of the person who doesn’t like you, has done something to hurt you, who has offended you, or someone you don’t like for whatever reason. Now, apply the Scripture..
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. (Mt 5:43-45)
But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. (Lk 6:27-30)
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Ro 12:19-21)
Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Eph 4:31-32)
Notice there are no caveats. No exception clauses. No extenuating circumstances. No loop holes. It doesn’t matter what they have done… do… or will do to you… love them. Pray asking God to bless, protect, and forgive them… no matter what they have done. When and as you have opportunity, do good to them by not damaging their reputation or casting doubt on their character. Instead, as you are able do things for them to help, encourage, and bless them. This proves you are a child of God.
As we forgive, especially our enemies, God give us HIS freedom, HIS peace, and HIS liberty. Quit carrying the emotional baggage, throw it on Christ because He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7. Really… read that verse!). You CAN do it because Christ Himself lives in you… you ARE empowered by The Holy Spirit to forgive your most ardent enemy IF you believe Philippians 4:13… “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Philippians 1:27, “Whatever happens, conduct yourself in a manner worth of the Gospel.” Romans 12:18, “As much as it depends on you, be at peace with all…”