Grace and peace be unto you.
Have you ever prayed for God to remove your enemies? What was the response? The Bible teaches that God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours. Consequently, we are encouraged to study and obey his word so we can grow in his grace and knowledge.
The story is told that after Joshua died, the Israelites constantly disobeyed God’s commands. Hence, God advised them that he would allow their enemies to remain in the land for two purposes. Firstly, to test their obedience to him. Secondly, to help the young ones who had no warfare experience, obtain same. The tribes that the Lord allowed to remain are the Canaanites, Sidonians, Hivites, and the five rulers of the Philistines (Judges 3:1-4).
Similarly, God placed you in this sinful world and allow your enemies to be in close proximity to you. They may be in your local church, live next door, work in the same office, or in your family. You cannot escape them. Interestingly, their purpose is to help you develop a Christlike Image (Romans 8:29). A Christlike Image is evident when you obey Gods’ Word and your lifestyle demonstrates the fruit of the Spirit.
As a result, God is watching to see how you manage the provocations from your enemies. Will you curse and malice them? Will you love and pray for them? Scripture says, “But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!” (Matthew 5:44). Occasionally, the temptations might feel painful and unbearable, but do not faint. God promised that he will not give you more than you can bear (2 Corinthians 10:13).
Heavenly Father, help us to look at our enemies’ provocations from your perspective and understand that they will help us conform to the Image of your Son. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Born for a Purpose 