I struggle and will likely continue to struggle with the fact that I do for others and continue to, in some cases, do the work they were tasked with doing, only to not receive any acknowledgment or even a thank you. I am human and require to be at least acknowledged for the work I do.
“30Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods, do not demand them back.” – Luke 6:30 (ESV)
Jesus reminds me here that my job is to continue to give. To continue doing for others without the expectation of return. I have to be the “bigger” person and continue to be the example that He has given me.
This passage is titled “Love Your Enemies”, and as I do know that to be the actions I am to take, it is not easy. Jesus knows this to be true and that is why he has provided his guiding word. To love you enemies is also found in Matthew chapter 5. I even studied and wrote about the passage here titled, “Pray Even for Those Against You”. So this is something that God really wants me to be looking at in my life.
I am only a man that is trying to live my kingdom purpose and can only seek the guidance from God in my life. I am grateful for the opportunity that He has given me to do His work. I have to remember the words from this passage and especially verses 35 and 36.
“35But love you enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting noting in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. 36Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.” – Luke 6:35-36 (ESV)
You see, I am to be giving and loving with all I come in contact with. I am to bring the word of God to all, regardless of their relationship or treatment to me. I have to remember that they truly may not know and it is my role to educate them and most importantly pray for and love them.
When you look at the way you are treated, how do you react to those that are against you? Are you willing and able to continue giving in spite of what you may have returned to you? What if you simply loved those against you, praying and giving to them without the expectation of reciprocation?
Trevor's Thoughts 