In Luke chapter 6, Jesus gives us the correct application of love. He teaches that love for others must extend even to those who consider themselves our enemies. Love your enemies and not just those who can love you in return.
"“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. If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also. Give to anyone who asks; and when things are taken away from you, don’t try to get them back. Do to others as you would like them to do to you."
Luke 6:27-31 NLT.
Love your enemies. Love and bless even those who hate you. Jesus says; pray for those who hurt you! Did I hear someone ask; is Jesus really serious, how can I possibly love those who hate me and pray for those who possibly intentionally hurt me? The truth is, that is when love is most needed. Love is the nature of God and we are children of that God.
"“If you love only those who love you, why should you get credit for that? Even sinners love those who love them! And if you do good only to those who do good to you, why should you get credit? Even sinners do that much! And if you lend money only to those who can repay you, why should you get credit? Even sinners will lend to other sinners for a full return. “Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked."
Luke 6:32-35 NLT.
