Love Your Enemy

Our world is full of so much fear and anger. We need to pray for peace and let's pray for opportunities to show love to those who are different, those we disagree with, those we may fear. That's what Jesus would do. Remember our fight is NOT against flesh and blood, it is spiritual.

Our enemy rages against us these days. He may be able to turn public opinion against us. We may even suffer serious persecution as believers in the West. But let's recognize WHO our enemy is. It is not the people, but the spirit behind the actions of people. It is Satan, himself.

Jesus said to love the people. Let's take some time this week to consider what it means to love those who hate us. Our heart must really love . . . even our thoughts. We can only do this with the power of Jesus' love in our own lives.

Remember too, that Jesus already defeated Satan. He has already won the victory. Battles may rage on, but the outcome of the war is finished. We fight in prayer and we fight from victory.

The only way to win battles over rage, hate and fear is with love. Love confuses and conquers hate.

Lord, give us opportunities to love our neighbor.

"But I say unto you, Love your enemies, 

bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, 

and pray for them who despitefully use you, and persecute you."

~Jesus, Matthew 5:44

In Stillness We See

Do you every try to just be still? 

I mean absolutely still, every muscle, every thought stilled, until your breathing becomes noticeable? 

Try it. First try it for five minutes, then increase the time until you can do it for twenty. 

WARNING: Your thoughts will go crazy (now's a really good time to try that brain-dump journaling to clear your mind. See previous post about Time-Wasters).

Once your mind is clear. Focus on your breathing. Realize every breath is from God. 

Ponder an aspect of creation and what kind of being had to create it. 

I did this in the middle of a late night storm the other night. Incredible! The power of the wind and lightening shook the house. I remained still. 

The One who created the wind and the trees, the clouds and the sun. He is the One we worship. By worship I mean obey, because singing songs to Him isn't enough. HE WILL BE OBEYED. As the disciples found out, even the winds and the waves obey the voice of Jesus.

At the same time His love for us is never-ending, gentle, forgiving. His eyes of love search for us continually.

Be still and know. . .