We live in a world where we come in contact with some very difficult people. They may be indifferent, obnoxious or even persecute us. The Lord Jesus gives some ways to be a witness to these people in Luke 6:27-28.

First He says, we are to “do good to them which hate you.” The word hate is not so much that they despise us, but just ignore us. They are not interested in anything we have to offer them and do not want to be our friend. These people would rather live without us pretending we do not exist. The Lord’s answer is “to do good to them.” We need to look for opportunities to serve them. When at work, we need to offer our services if they need them. We should also volunteer to help to our neighbors in their times of need thereby showing our interest in them.

Some people are obnoxious, spiteful or jealous of us and say things to hurt us. The Lord tells us to “bless them that curse you.” Do not get into a shouting match or fault-finding debate, instead say something good about them no matter how hard it is.

If we are right, we do not have to come down to their level to defend ourselves. Our facial expression, gestures and attitude can allow them to lower their guard showing we are not at war with them. This may allow them to open up to us concerning their needs giving us the opportunity to share the good news of Jesus Christ.

Jesus says, “pray for them which despitefully use you or persecute you.” There may be those who try to harm us by trying to get us fired, discrediting our character, etc. When our good works or good words do not reach them, then the only recourse left is prayer. God is the only one who can break their hard hearts. Prayer is our most powerful weapon. It is asking God to do what only He can do trusting that He knows what is needed and how long it takes to accomplish it.

We need to also pray for ourselves that we do not become bitter because of the persecution. Prayer will keep us from getting discouraged and giving up. It taps us into God’s unlimited grace. We stand the tallest when we are on our knees.

We are not able to love our enemies. We want to get even or retaliate wanting them to hurt as badly as we do. Jesus says to love our enemies by helping, speaking well of and praying for them. Our love for them comes not from within, but from above and it flows through us. We receive God’s love when we are indifferent, obnoxious or turn against Him making us able to offer it to our enemies as God has given it to us.

Steve Conwell, pastor of Marantha Baptist Church, is heard mornings on WFLO and WVHL in “A Thought For Today.” His email address is SteveConwell@outlook.com.