How to Get Along with an Enemy

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Prompt #129: Write a light-hearted piece on how to get along with an enemy.

To get along with an enemy, first and foremost, you need love. Not the kind of love that society represents, but the kind of love Jesus had and still has for those who reject Him. Matthew 5:44 "But I tell you: Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you." Not only are we supposed to love our neighbors, but we're also supposed to love those who have wronged us. And not only are we supposed to love them, but we are to pray for them as well.

Moreover, forgiveness is required to get along with an enemy. Holding grudges toward one another only intensifies the strong feelings of hatred between the two of you. Think hard about whatever happened that lead you two to become "enemies." Is it worth dwelling over? According to Jesus, nothing is worth holding unforgiveness toward someone. He says in Mark 11:25, "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."

In addition to loving and forgiving your enemy, acts of kindness will help. Proverbs 25:21-22 says, "If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you." There is no reward for treating your enemy poorly. Even if your enemy doesn't do any of these things in return, that just means YOU are the bigger and better person. Not in a boastful way, but in a way that is pleasing to God.