Loving the people I dislike

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."

Matthew 5:43-48

What a hard verse to live by; I don't have enemies (at least not that I know of) but some people do cross me wrong. And I am finding that it is really hard not to become bitter and speak against them, which is exactly what I should not do. I need to pray for them, love them.

It's hard, very hard. But this is what the Lord does and He has called us to be perfect like Him.
And as I pray for them I find I'm a happier ... because I am closer to God.