I can’t think of many worse situations on this earth.

These were “enemies” by every definition of the word. ⁣

In fact, Peter raised his sword in defense and cut off the ear of one of the offenders.

A noble act of loyalty against such injustice!⁣

And yet what did Christ do?⁣

“And he touched his ear, and healed him.” (Luke 22:51)

He healed the man’s ear. ⁣

“He reached out and blessed His potential captor using the same heavenly power that could have prevented Him from being captured and crucified.” —David A. Bednar

Did that man really deserve to be healed?⁣

Christ didn’t ask that question. ⁣

He just loved everyone and did good to those who used Him. ⁣

He didn’t just teach about “loving your enemies” — He lived it. ⁣

Are we stuck a little too much on making sure people get what they deserve?⁣

Or could we do better at ignoring about making things “fair”

While also honestly hoping that we never get exactly what we deserve?

Jesus showed overwhelming kindness, love, and generosity toward His enemy.

Happy Studying!

-Cali Black

The post Getting what we deserve first appeared on Come Follow Me Study with Cali Black.

I immediately had a name come to mind.

The teacher then invited us to try to sincerely pray for that person.

I was shocked to discover that I couldn’t do it!

I was so angry that I couldn’t even say a prayer on their behalf.

I knew I had a problem.

I worked for a long time to have my heart softened toward this individual.

A lot of intentional effort, prayers, and pondering.

And then finally…

I could do it.

I could say a sincere and honest prayer on their behalf.

And it was at this point that I realized that even though this person hadn’t changed, I had changed for the better.

When Christ preached His Sermon on the Mount, He first talked about the lower law.

“Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.” (Matthew 5:43)

Doesn’t the world teach that lower commandment all the time?

Love everyone, but hate the people who aren’t nice to you.

But Christ teaches us the higher law. This is the law He hopes the more spiritually mature individuals will follow.

“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)

It’s a higher law that is easier said than lived in this messy mortal life filled with very imperfect people.

But we aren’t asked to make the judgment call for others.

We are just asked to love.

Because God knows that when we love our enemies, it doesn’t change them; it changes us.

Happy Studying!

-Cali Black

The post Pray for your enemies first appeared on Come Follow Me Study with Cali Black.