“Finally, brethren, …whatsoever things are of good report;… think on these things.” Philippians 4:8
It’s easy to have kind thoughts toward those who are dear to us, even those we simply like. However, the gesture of thinking favorable thoughts toward people who has caused us harm, whether intentionally or unintentionally, is not easily embraced. I’ll venture to say it’s an effort not accomplished in one’s own strength.
God’s Word always pulls us away from the world’s response of do unto others as they do to you. Instead, we are called to do unto people what we would have them do to unto us (Matthew 7:12). An interesting yet godly concept, treat people how you want to be treated rather than be influenced by their treatment of you. In Matthew 5:44, we find the instructions to aid us in pursuing a different perspective from the world’s… love, bless, do good to and pray for… those opposing persons who cross our paths unknowingly to grow us into the people God intended. A decision to love, bless, do good to and pray for equips us to foster thoughts of good report towards all people, those held dear and afar.
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;” Matthew 5:44
“ The good report of people is not hard to see when viewed from the eyes of love”_ASA
Chronicles of ASA 