The quickest way to conquer an enemy

(J. R. Miller, "Devotional Hours with the Bible")

"Love your enemies,
do good to those who hate you,
bless those who curse you,
pray for those who mistreat you.
If someone strikes you on one cheek,
turn to him the other also." Luke 6:27-29

We are too apt to resent insults and retaliate, when others say or do evil things to us. The Christian way is either not to speak at all, or to give the soft answer that turns away wrath. Not only is this the Christian way, it is also the way of wisdom.

The quickest way to conquer an enemy--is to treat him with kindness in return for his unkindness. Stopping to resent every insult--keeps one continually fretful; whereas ignoring slights and going on quietly with our own duty--is the way to get the better of them. The best answer to sneers and scoffs and abuse--is a sweet, quiet, beautiful life of patience and gentleness.

The lesson our Master teaches us, is . . .
to bear wrong patiently,
to forgive injury,
to return kindness for unkindness,
to return good for evil,
to return love for hate.

It is a fatal injury to his life--when one allows himself to grow bitter, to cherish resentment, to let envy or any hurt feeling rankle in his heart. At last love is utterly driven out, and dark and malignant passions take full possession.

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