But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you (Luke 6:27-28).

Missionaries often serve in communities where they are unwanted. They labor in a culture that is hostile and frankly, is sometimes quite unfriendly. When they and their church families want to build their churches, sometimes the community leaders do everything they can do to discourage and delay the building. It is not uncommon for unsaved people to be very unkind and even hateful toward those who share the gospel.

As a young Bible college student (a long time ago now!), I was stunned to hear the stories of servants who bore the marks of persecution. Yet the servants continued serving and often overcame the hostility by their consistent gracious, loving, and intentional acts of kindness.

How will this play out in your life today? Is someone reacting poorly because of your witness for Christ? The Lord’s standard is still the same.

Take this with you today: Some folks are a little easier than others to love. We truly need the Lord’s help and grace to demonstrate to the world what it truly means to be a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ.