Jesus Christ said, “Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). This is needed if we are to be like our Father in heaven, because He so loved the world that He gave His Son to be killed for the forgiveness of our sin (John 3:16). Some languages have different words for love, such as brotherly love, sexual love or outgoing concern. God is agape and that means outgoing concern where He seeks to do good to all.

Jesus intended for His followers to be concerned about the condition of this world, which is locked in darkness under the sway of Satan. Obviously we cannot come near the thought patterns of God, but we can use wisdom and care to avoid allowing ourselves to seek revenge or come to hate another. It is not necessary to spend time with those who persecute or curse us. It is better to flee as Jesus also said (Matthew 10:23). Sometimes we need to care for people from a distance. We can do good when there is a need or occasion. Often a good deed can turn the thoughts of another to more positive things.