During
the US Civil War, hatred became entrenched between the North and South. In one
instance, President Abraham Lincoln was criticized for speaking of benevolent
treatment for the Southern rebels. The critic reminded Lincoln that there was a
war going on, the Confederates were the enemy, and they should be destroyed.
But Lincoln wisely responded, “I destroy my enemies when I make them my
friends.”
Lincoln’s
comment is insightful. In many ways it reflects Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon
on the Mount: “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” (Matt. 5:44-45).
We will
encounter difficult people in our lives—some on whom we will need to set
limits. But to give in to the temptation to undermine or hurt them in any way
is not God’s way. Instead, we should pray for them, show consideration, look
out for their best interests, and emphasize the positive. This may result in
changing an enemy into a friend.
Not
everyone will respond positively to us, but we can pray and plan for a more
harmonious relationship. What difficult person can you start befriending?
It’s hard
to hate someone when you’re doing something good for him. (RBC)
