To Destroy One’s Enemy Or Not By Abimbola Abatta

Let's assume you know your arch-enemy (that man or woman that hates to see you succeed and is plotting your downfall). If you have the opportunity to save this individual, will you give it a go? Or will you look the other way? 

No sane human will choose to help their known enemies when such a chance presents itself. But God expects us to help people regardless. 

Proverbs 25:21 says, “If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.” 

I have often contemplated on this verse of the Bible. Why should I assist my enemy? Is that not foolishness? But the intent of that verse does not imply foolishness or insanity. It is a message of love. When we have the opportunity to destroy our enemies, but we choose not to, our action can change them positively.  

In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “It is easy enough to be friendly to one's friends. But to befriend the one who regards himself as your enemy is the quintessence of true religion. The other is mere business.”

Everyone can make friends easily. However, making a friend out of one's enemy is a Herculean task. We will encounter enemies at every turn of life’s stages, but true humanity lies in our ability to conquer our opponents with love. 

Once you realise that hatred, enmity, unforgiveness, and other cohorts are impediments to progress in life, you will learn to love others even when they persecute you. 

As you step out this week, one, two or more persons may step on your toes. This week may even unveil seemingly pleasant ways to destroy your adversaries, but you must make the right choice. 

The right choice might seem crazy. The world might call you insane for making this choice. But you must purpose in your heart with God's help to “Love your enemies, bless those that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for those who despitefully use you, and persecute you.” So help us, God. Amen. 

© Abimbola Abatta