Day 18: Our Enemies

When I think of the word “enemy,” I think of villains in a TV Show or movie, not someone we encounter every day. And if I think further, following my description, I wouldn’t think I have any enemies, but what I am thinking of now is someone who is opposed to you. Maybe someone who talks behind your back, a coworker constantly trying to throw you under the bus. I am sure we may have someone like this in our life.

I would be included to hate this person and do the same things back, but we have to be the bigger person, even when it isn’t easy. Sometimes these enemies are placed in our lives to strengthen our faith and character. I try to ask myself how I can become a better person while dealing with this person, and I think there are a few ways. We can become more patient and trusting in God. When dealing with a difficult person in the workplace, I often say, “a cada puerco le llega su Noche Buena,” a phrase I learned from my mother. It translates to “each Pig has its own Christmas,” which means, in short, “nothing last forever.” In the Dominican Republic, it is customary to roast a pig on the 24, which is what we consider our Christmas; this day is called Noche Buena, thus, explaining why a pig gets a Christmas. I have seen in the past how I had a difficult coworker, who was indeed out to eat me, but I waited, and eventually, God removed her from my midst. So don’t lose heart, keep praying and trusting in the Lord, and He will deliver you from your enemies.

"Lord, we know all things happen for a reason, and all people in our lives serve a purpose, whether good or bad. I pray for patience in difficult situations and a clear head to stop me from lashing out. I pray that I continue to trust in you, that you will remove my enemies from my midst. Grant us peace and the will to endure, knowing all things will work out for good. I pray this in Jesus' name, amen."

“But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”

Luke 6:27-36

SDG : “Soli Deo Gloria”