Mourning the enemy

Today: 2 Samuel 1-3

Do you have an "us versus them" mentality?

Lately I've noticed that it's common practice for people to dehumanize those who have opposing views. Republicans do it to Democrats, women do it to men and Christians do it to non-Christians (and vice versa on all of these comparisons, too!). When a battle of ideas becomes a battle to demonize people, it's wrong.

If anyone had an excuse to hate his enemies, it was David. After all, God (via the prophet Samuel) chose David as king while Saul was still on the throne. Saul repeatedly tried to kill David even though David continually treated him with respect and kindness. David did absolutely nothing to justify Saul's rage.

But when Saul died (at the hands of a "mercy" killer), David mourned. He recognized that Saul was anointed by God.

You and I may face opposition from people in our lives. More than likely, they're not trying to kill us. And more than likely, they're not kings or spiritual leaders anointed by God. But if they are human beings, they were created by God. He made something good in them and called them to pursue a purpose. Don't strip your "enemies" of their God-given humanity. Dare to see their potential, celebrate their successes and mourn the loss of any of that God-designed greatness.

Tomorrow: 2 Samuel 4-7