Romans 12:14– Proven to be inclusive

Bless those who are persecuting you: bless, and do not curse…

Although this is not usually reflected in the translations, the preceding verses were in the form of a dozen observations. This verse, on the other hand, is in the imperative form. That is not necessarily a negative or a burden. After all, phrases like “have a seat” “goodnight,” or “bon appetit” are also imperative, but we usually do so with pleasure. Likewise, the instruction in the verse above is a privilege to live by.

These words are very similar to what Jesus taught in the ‘Sermon on the Mount’ (Matt.5:44,45). “Love your enemies and pray for those who are persecuting you…”. And then the motif: “…so that you may become sons of your Father Who is in the heavens; for he causes his sun to rise on the wicked and the good…”. Our primary response is to curse those who harm or persecute us. That may be human, but our Father in Heaven is different. For He does not exclude but includes. His grace is all-embracing and universal.

If God shows love to his enemies and reconciles them all (Rom. 5:10,18), why should our attitude be any different? Never can grace prove to be more graceful than in the midst of enemies.

Delen: