What does the Bible say about your enemies?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible calls believers to overcome hostility not with revenge, but with prayer, kindness, trust in God, and active love toward those who oppose them. Jesus commands His disciples to love their enemies and pray for their persecutors in Matthew 5:44 and Luke 6:35, reflecting the mercy of the Father. Romans 12:14, 20 forbids cursing and commends meeting an enemy's needs, leaving vengeance to God. Proverbs 24:17 warns against delighting in another's fall, while Proverbs 25:21-22 urges practical generosity. This does not deny evil or justice; rather, believers entrust themselves to the Lord, who protects His people and works peace according to His wise purposes.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Matthew 5:44
But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you,
- Proverbs 24:17
Don't rejoice when your enemy falls. Don't let your heart be glad when he is overthrown;
- Romans 12:14
Bless those who persecute you; bless, and don't curse.
- Romans 12:20
Therefore "If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in doing so, you will heap coals of fire on his head."
- Proverbs 16:7
When a man's ways please Yahweh, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
- Matthew 5:38-39
[38] "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' [39] But I tell you, don't resist him who is evil; but whoever strikes you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.
- Proverbs 25:21-22
[21] If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; If he is thirsty, give him water to drink: [22] For you will heap coals of fire on his head, And Yahweh will reward you.
- Psalms 138:7
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you will revive me. You will stretch forth your hand against the wrath of my enemies. Your right hand will save me.
- Luke 6:35
But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing back; and your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind toward the unthankful and evil.
- John 14:1
"Don't let your heart be troubled. Believe in God. Believe also in me.
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