Matthew 5:43-45 

If we responded simply from natural impulses, we’d be kind to those who are kind to us and vengeful toward those who hurt us. It’s human nature. 

Jesus clearly teaches us to love even our enemies. And He lived out what He taught: Christ loved us enough to die for us while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8-10). He offered His love without waiting for us to be deserving of it. 

When we respond to hostility with love, something remarkable happens. First, the Father is pleased, which brings His children joy, peace, and deep satisfaction. Second, we get to watch how God moves in the relationship. Sometimes hearts soften. Sometimes reconciliation happens. Sometimes we simply become more like Jesus in the process. 

There’s also an internal transformation. We become aware that the Holy Spirit is working from within, enabling divine love to flow through us in ways we couldn’t manufacture on our own. Galatians 5:22-23 lists nine qualities of spiritual fruit that He produces in believers—and love is the first one mentioned. 

Loving difficult people isn’t natural—it’s supernatural. And it’s one of the clearest ways others see Christ in us.