Why on earth would we want to bless those who are wicked toward us?
- Romans 12:14, “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.”
- Romans 12:21, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
- 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.”
I believe the answer to this is simple: the ability to forgive and to stand out as a light to others is something that sets us a part as Christians from others. Consider for a moment how an unexpected act of kindness from you could impact someone who’s intentionally offended you.
Another reason to bless those who persecute us is, it typically goes against our fleshly nature which is usually to feel bitter, angry, and even hateful toward the offender. These feelings do nothing good for us and give the enemy a foothold to drag us down. Choosing to forgive and pray for those who hurt us can release us from the bondage of the offender’s persecution and help us to move on.
As Jesus was on the cross facing the ultimate persecution He said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” (Luke 23:34). Those who intend to persecute Christians for their beliefs probably don’t fully know what they are doing. I believe if they knew God, they would have too much fear to be behaving in such a way.
- Matthew 5:38, “But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.”
I think this scripture sometimes gets misinterpreted. This is by no way means we are to become doormats for abuse. I believe Jesus is likely referring to persecution here. There is a bigger significance in persecution then we might realize. Take a look at this next scripture where Jesus talks to His disciples:
- John 15:18, “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep your also. But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me.”
- James 1:2, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
If you are struggling with persecution seek God in prayer to give you the heart He wants you to have. Know too He will deal with each one in His own way. He is just, He is gracious, He is merciful and understands right where you are. Rest assured if you are ever to suffer for the sake of Christ, God is near you.
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Scripture references are quoted from the NKJV.