We all have enemies.  There are rude customers, people who won’t speak and give no reason and those who smile in our face but make life miserable for us behind our backs.  There are bosses who promote their friends who have not earned it.  There are preachers who want only popularity and care nothing about their flock.  There are steady girlfriends who never have time for their boyfriend because other boys are more exciting.  There are teachers who have pets and our deserving project never gets an A grade.  The person who never shows up to help takes all the credit when praise and awards are given.  What a long list this is becoming.   

God says we are to love these people and pray for them.  It doesn’t matter if we can trust them or if they are unfair.  God just says love them and pray for them.  We are to return a kind word and prayer in order to soften their heart.

One lady said to an irate customer that she appreciated his kindness in bringing it to her attention so she could make things right.  That customer was very humble after that.  Dr. Charles Stanley puts it very beautifully when an irate person approaches him to tell him all the things that do not please him.  Dr. Stanley will politely listen.  When all is said and done, Dr. Stanley will thank the person who will then become very silent.  He goes one step further by asking the person, if there is anything else he needs to point out.  Everything is done with gentleness and kindness. 

These people do not necessarily have to be our best friends but we are expected to love them and show kindness.  We do not have to let hard feelings dictate to us whether or not to be nice.  Kindness and prayer will change hearts if we truly seek to please God.

Luke 6:27-28

But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you.  Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.