But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. (Matthew 5:44 ESV).

By: Scott Schuler

The Bible tells us to turn the other cheek when our enemy approaches. Then why do we want to punch out their lights or complain and retaliate against their actions?

Hating others is easier than extending grace.

It puffs our pride by putting others down. It makes us feel good, at least momentarily, because we know we are right. The other person cannot possibly understand what we know. They just don’t see why we hate them.

Consider the ludicrous war between Russia and Ukraine. It’s all about power in the name of man. I’ve heard others talk about hating the Russian leaders for what they are doing to the innocent Ukrainians.

Because I’ve lived in Russia and Ukraine, I’ve grown to know and love the people in both countries.

While my heart is saddened by the murder and devastation in Ukraine, I know hate is not the answer.

Love is the answer. Why? Because 1 Peter 4:8 (ESV) tells us, “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins”.

Practically speaking, how do we love when everything in us wants to hate? This can be especially hard when someone we love hurts us or is hurt. A good friend advised me we must first stop comparing our strengths to someone else’s weakness. Instead, focus on their strengths and gifts as children of God.

When we turn our cheek to the sinful behavior of others, Jesus allows us to extend grace.

This allows them to see Jesus through us. And Jesus can change hearts—ours and theirs.

I encourage you to pray for God’s Will in the Russia / Ukraine war. Pray for the leaders and nations to experience truth and that the hope of Jesus will prevail in this horrific debacle.

Love beats hate because love transforms us into the image of Christ. And we need more image-bearers in these days.

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