Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone ( Romans 12:17). Paul says in the New Testament letter to the Romans: Do not repay anyone evil for evil. How Can You Still Love Your Enemies When They've Used Up Your Patience? It is encouraging to know we are all human. It is encouraging to hear other people’s problems and know you are not alone in your struggles. A community of any type builds individual hope. We are all the same under our skin and in our emotions. What we perceive as differences may not be differences at all. Loving your enemies may means you can “agree to disagree.” The key is to sit down and have an honest talk. Human interactions are not always going to go smoothly, however. Research published by Harvard Medical School states, “We know that stress, depression, and anger all have negative effects on the body, especially with regard to the risk of cardiovascular disease…The opposite emotions and mindsets -satisfaction and optimism - are closely linked to (but not necessarily synonymous with) a sense of purpose…associated with better heart health.” On the opposite shore, stress from conflict is very bad for our health. There is research supporting the idea that volunteer work and social involvement with others is wonderful for our general health. Love is a verb, and doing something for someone else expands our hearts. We all have gifts to share with one another and unique experiences others would love to hear. Some of us need help to walk across the street or to carry a heavy object. We need each other and grow from each other’s experiences and insights. When differences arose among my former high school students, I would remind them that we’re all in this together. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well” Matthew 5:38-40. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person.
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