Mission Impossible

And this I pray, that your love may overflow still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment.

Philippians 1:9 (NASB)

I think that, like many other believers, you often wonder if it's easy to love your enemies and do good to those who mistreat you, as Jesus taught his disciples. You see it as a "Mission Impossible," where you are the Ethan Hunt who must accomplish it. It's a question we ask ourselves every time we meet someone we consider our worst enemy. But is it really an impossible mission?

It's true that when God asks something of us and places great importance on it, it's because He knows that not only will it seem difficult to do, but that we will also be reluctant to accept it. However, I want to draw your attention to two things Paul says in this verse: (1) "And this is I pray." This means Paul knows we can never do it alone. We need God's help. (2) "Your love may overflow... in real knowledge and all discernment." This means our love should not be the fruit of our emotions, but rather of the knowledge of God, which will help us do His will.

Let's examine this point seriously. Don't you see that when God asks us to do something, He always provides the means? He simply expects us to cooperate with Him. Loving your enemy is therefore not impossible, because if you know God and experience His love, you will understand why you must love even your worst enemy. Remember, you were God's enemy, yet He chose to love you and save you from what had alienated you from Him. Make loving your enemy the greatest possible mission of your life.

May grace and Peace of God be with you all.