Talk with Christians today about their enemies, and they'll share one of two things. They'll say to be like Forest Gump and run, "Run Forest, run!" Or, they'll say to be like William Wallace in the epic film "Braveheart" and fight, "FREEDOOOOM!!!" However, unlike Hollywood's fables, Jesus says, "Stop running and fighting; stand firm and love your enemy." Love Your Enemy is our following Wonderfully Weird Command. 

In the Bible, we read the command. The Gospel of Matthew says, Love your enemy, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. Cut!!! Wait a second. Can this be right? Jesus wants me to love those who, despite me and hate me? Yeppers! Why? Because it's God's will, and it works for the betterment of life. Proverbs 16:7 says, When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies be at peace [trust] with him (ESV). The peace mentioned here is the order of God that only comes through obeying Jesus's teachings in the Gospel, resting on the Father's perspective of "LOVE." Yes, to love everyone. The Gospel is the climax of LIFE's story and must be a reality if true peace is the outcome—miss the ending, miss the enjoyment and contentment that comes with it. If you expect life to be a prize, loving your enemy must be your TRUTH, with creativity being the most incredible treasure yielded from it. How creative are you?

Creativity is about using imagination or original ideas to create something spectacular. It's a willingness to undertake new or risky projects. It also gives the ability to solve complex problems, often in clever and inventive ways. It's all about filtering wise and unbiassed thoughts through a mind that supports "The Way of Life"— A life seen in Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:10: For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them (ESV). Creativity is making and using everything God provides where everyone benefits, and He gets applause and Glory.

I encourage all Christ's followers to be motivated through the part God has given them. I urge all to read and study Jesus's teaching or Wonderfully Weird Command of Christ, Love Your Enemy to benefit. As well practice, practice it often and rehearse it repeatedly. The more you read, study, and exercise, the more you will develop into the creative person God designed you to be to generally love your enemy with sincerity.

Please understand the "Love Your Enemy" command is all about creativity. When this command is not honored and is not lived out, disappointment and underachievement will be reality. Today won't you learn this vital teaching; practice it daily to reap the benefits so you can live in the blessings only God can give. If you do, a good life is promised where fulfillment and flourishing are guaranteed in the long run, and life is lived out according to divine design.

With love,

~ Pastor Drake