Now I Understand

Warriors Arise: November 26, 2023

Matthew 5:43-45 “You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 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, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven;

Why do we love our enemies, bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who spitefully use us and persecute us? We do it because we are God's children. We represent God.

When I was growing up. I didn't want to do anything that would make my parents look bad. There was a sense of honor within me that kept me in line even in the times when I wanted to act out. I would hold it inside until I could get to a safe place to scream to have my little fit. But I tried with all my might to hold my tongue when provoked or pushed or humiliated. Sometimes I would even be biting my tongue to make sure I didn't say anything. That hurt so I decided I had to find another way to keep my mouth shut and my actions pure.

As a Christian, I am God's child; therefore, I am to act accordingly. I am to honor my Father in heaven. As Jesus taught and demonstrated, I am to love my enemies and bless those who curse me. I am to do good to those who hate me and pray for those who have spitefully used me and persecuted me. It is easier said than done, but in Christ, I can do all things because He strengthens me. My desire to represent my Father in heaven well, has to be stronger than my natural desire to defend myself or become the same type of person who is harassing me.

Anyone can have enemies. That is easy. But not everyone can love their enemies.

Anyone can curse. That is easy. But not everyone can bless.

Anyone can do good, but not necessarily to those who hate them.

Anyone can pray, but not necessarily to those who spiteful use them or persecute them.

You and I are not anyone, we are children of the Father in heaven. We can do what our Brother is telling us to do. We can honor our Father in heave because of what Jesus is telling us to do.

Father, I will honor You and follow what Jesus has instructed. I will represent You well. I will call upon Your strength and love my enemies. I will look to You and listen for how to bless those who curse me. I will not worry about the curse for Your Word says a curse without a cause will not stand. Therefore, I will bless and their curse toward me will fall to the ground void. I will do good to those who hate me. I will pray for those who spitefully use me and persecute me. I may not do it right but I will keep my eyes on You and listen. I will be strengthened by You and represent You well in Jesus' name amen.

A Warrior in the Lord’s Army,

Veridee Joy Hand

Join together as Believers in Jesus Christ to pray and to push back the enemy as we release God’s power here on earth. If you have any questions please feel free to make a comment or private message me. If you would like this to come to your email directly please go to verideehand.com and subscribe.