ENEMIES

Definition:

One who feels hatred toward, intends injury to, or opposes the interests of another is an enemy; a foe. It can also be seen as a hostile power or force, such as a nation.

Brief Explanation:

Unfortunately, many people will have as a part of their presenting problem hurts and wounds caused by significant others in their past. Some of the people can be classified as enemies, at least in the mind of the client seeking help. Whether real or from a paranoiac ideation (paranoid thoughts), an enemy in the mind must be addressed if counseling is going to be successful.

One primary reason many will hold on to anger and bitterness towards a perceived enemy is the fear that the enemy will hurt them (again). To forgive does not require trust in anyone other than God, but is essential, and the focus of counseling after trust with you has been established.

The Word of God:

Romans 12:17-19

Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men.  If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.  Never take you own revenge beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

Matthew 5:43, 44

You have heard that it was said, “You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.  But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

Matthew 18:21, 22

Then Peter came and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him?  Up to seven times?”  Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up tot seven times, but up to seventy times seven.”

Psalm 97:10

“Hate evil, you who love the Lord, who preserves the souls of His godly ones; He delivers them from the hand of the wicked.”