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Do You Celebrate or Grieve When Your Enemies Suffer?

Do You Celebrate or Grieve When Your Enemies Suffer?

The Bible is an inspired record of human history that focuses on the sin problem and God’s solution for it—the plan of salvation. It records real historical people who did real things, but often what is recorded is more than mere history. Within these stories, we find lessons that apply to us today.

Recently, I was reading the book of Obadiah. In this account, Judah is under attack from enemies; their cousins in Edom, who are the descendants of Esau, are being chastised for and warned against celebrating Judah’s destruction.

There was a long history of conflict between Jacob’s descendants and Esau’s, one that almost certainly stemmed from the birthright and Jacob deceiving their father, Isaac. When the Israelites finally left Egypt and sought permission to travel through the land of Edom, where Esau’s descendants lived, on their way to the Promised Land, the Edomites refused them passage. Conflict continued over subsequent generations. David defeated the Edomites and set up fortresses in their land, but the Edomites continued to grow and eventually joined with other nations in attacking Israel and Judah.

By the time of Obadiah, there was deep-seated animosity between the groups. When Judah was invaded and Jerusalem sacked, the Edomites celebrated. They also looked for opportunities to profit from Judah’s downfall and even aided the invaders in sniping at fugitives and turning over fleeing Jews to the invaders.

But notice the prophet’s warning:

You should not look down on your brother in the day of his misfortune, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction, nor boast so much in the day of their trouble. You should not march through the gates of my people in the day of their disaster, nor look down on them in their calamity in the day of their disaster, nor seize their wealth in the day of their disaster. You should not wait at the crossroads to cut down their fugitives, nor hand over their survivors in the day of their trouble. “The day of the LORD is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head” (1:12–15 NIV84).

Do you see a warning applicable to people today? Are we faced with situations in which we see various people as “enemies,” as working against God or God’s people or the common good? Do we long for some authority to take their power, wealth, and resources and to punish them? If we see those who have worked against us brought down, do we celebrate?

Do we teach theologies in which we look forward to the day when God will use His power to punish our enemies? When the wicked do reap their final end, will the righteous be celebrating their torment and destruction?

Recently, I wrote the blog Prepare! The King of the North Is Coming; in it, I describe two historical forces used by Satan to fight against each other as a means of drawing the people of God into joining one side or the other. In my understanding of the prophecy of Daniel 11, the final movement before Christ returns is the King of the North (religious imperialism) storming out against the King of the South (godless humanism, evolutionism, communism) and destroying him and taking his possessions, power, and wealth.

Many Christians have been rightly distressed at the rise in godlessness, wickedness, moral decay, and violence in society. Many have been frustrated and outraged at the advancement of philosophies that deny objective reality—such as there is no male and female and that gender is a made-up construct.

When the forces of the King of the North gain political power and storm out against the forces of the King of the South, what is the proper mindset and heart attitude for the people of God to have? Should we rejoice and celebrate their misfortune, their downfall, the confiscation of their wealth? Or should we grieve and pray for them?

As Obadiah wrote, “The day of the LORD is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head.” Yes, the day of the Lord is near for the entire world. This prophecy is not restricted to Edom; it is a warning to the entire world. How we treat others changes us. By choosing to practice the methods of fear, of selfishness, of hate, of revenge, of rejoicing in the downfall of our perceived enemies, we solidify into our characters the principles of the enemy of love. In doing so, we will bring destruction upon ourselves.

But if we choose to love our enemies and pray for those who spitefully use us, we become children of our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:43–48). It is by choice, by action, by how we treat others that we participate with God in writing His living law of love into our hearts and minds and are transformed and freed from the control of fear and selfishness. Then, when our enemies fall, we view them as family, recognizing them as we always should have, as descendants of Adam and Eve, our human brothers and sisters for whom Jesus died, and we grieve at their loss, our hearts ache at their suffering, and we cry at their destruction.

Yes, “The day of the LORD is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head.” So do not fall into the trap of this world and rejoice when your enemies suffer. Instead, love your enemies and God’s love will return upon your head—and “you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48 NKJV).

 

 

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Testimony 49

I came into the church at 21, but that is as far as it went. I was so confused about what love is. I couldn’t find it in the bible, because I am not a person that can read between the lines. I have no logic. I have read many, many books; trying to figure out the crux of the matter. They were helpful, but something was still missing. I have become very frustrated to the point of crying out to God, “Where can I go?”  I needed some basics.

I found two books, written by Timothy Jennings, MD, to be very helpful. God showed me that I had lived my whole life in fear. I didn’t even see it. Now, I do. God is so good.  I discovered the “The Remedy”  Dr. Jennings new book, “The God-Shaped Heart!” Oh, I was so excited, I purchased them right away.

I can get rid of most of my books, because “The Remedy” brings the Love of God out so clearly, even I can’t miss it. Now, I want to sit and read my Bible. Wow, what a revelation! It is just simply Awesome! I am so grateful to Jehovah Almighty for hearing my prayer for more understanding! I am so encouraged!

Jackie S.

 

Testimony 33

I was invited over a friend’s house to see the “God and Your Brain” seminar today. I became [a christian] 36 years ago at the age of 19, but have struggled with the concept of God taking His ‘pound of flesh’ out on His Son to be appeased. Wow. Your seminar has been an incredible revelation and breath of reason and fresh air! I have your book, “The God Shaped Brain,” and it is SO eye opening. Finally, after 36 years enlightenment has come! Praise the Good Lord! What can I say, but that the Real Gospel is truly “Good News!” Thank you for your efforts in giving the Gospel a clear sound!

Paul C.,  Springfield, MA, USA

 

Testimony 23

I would just like to add my voice to the many people who, I believe, must have contacted you to express their appreciation for the “Healing the Mind” DVDs. I’ve been listening to your Bible study class discussions for many years and I’ve been personally blessed by your research and teaching about the character of God.

L. G., Oakland, MI, USA

 

Testimony 34

I was introduced to Come and Reason Ministries by accident, via a passing comment made in a bible study class we were visiting. I checked this website out and my life was changed. The understanding of the truth of God’s character, and how we apply it, is so right. The tricky part is consistently applying which “lens” to look through. As I began to understand, I started sharing the basics of this understanding with a discussion group I was leading and, suddenly, a lot of things started to make sense that never used to. At the same time, I enjoyed an amazing opportunity. I was able to conduct a full bible study at WORK! What an amazing experience! It is such a joy to share the truth about God and to share how it all fits in the war between God and Satan. So many people benefit when we have a correct understanding about how God works and who He really is! Thank you for this transformational understanding. Keep up the good work! God Bless you!

Tony P., CA, USA

 

Testimony 9

I really enjoy with you the view of a gracious God. Thank you for sharing the work you are allowing the Lord to do in you.

L., Queensland, Australia

 

Testimony 11

I would love to have a copy of “Healing the Mind” DVDs to have in my therapy office. I enjoy having clients check out materials to enhance their therapy experience. I have sat under Dr. Jennings’ teaching at an American Association of Christian Counselors convention and respect his work greatly.

K.B., LA, USA

 

Testimony 35

I am so pleased with the response your message is receiving at my church from the middle-aged to the young adults. I have given out 100 copies of the first two seminars and there are more request every week. One of my [class members] came to me after viewing the series, grateful and impressed with how easy the message was retained. He had been a Seventh-day Adventist in fear all his life, and felt like the scales were removed from his eyes after viewing the seminars. I am so impressed by the change I see in members who have received this message, we are in one accord. However, I am sadden by the negative response of the older people. I am verbally attacked anytime I talk about imposed laws, but I believe my mission is to enlightened everyone I can. I watch your Bible Study Class on YouTube every Friday night and I feel like I am apart of the class. All of you are in one accord and I am so blessed to have found you. I pray that all of you continue to spread this message and I am committed to doing my part.

Clara S., Westfield, MA, USA

 

Testimony 55

I was born [into the church], then I left it for many years. 10 years ago, I came back, but I could not take the hypocrisy and the lack of answers to the missing pieces. I struggled, but I did not abandon my commitment to know the truth. God is leading me to the simple understanding of his relevance and I am relearning what the church taught me as a youth… that he loves me, that he has led me to a knowledge of him such as I have never known. He is using Dr. Jennings to connect the dots that are now so apparent and hiding in plain sight!

Dean P., Arlington, TX, USA

 

Testimony 64

I’ve been reading the bible and walking with Jesus since I was around 16. I’m 42 now. I’ve mostly been alone in my walk although I went to several churches in different denominations. For the past 3 years God has been showing me His character of agape. It’s been a blessing and changed how I view God and my walk with Jesus. About a year ago I came across the power of love and the principles of design law. These teachings changed how I read scripture and have been such a beautiful blessing. I’m very excited and grateful for these truths. We share these truths of agape, design law and the reality of the principles of the two trees in the garden of Eden with people on Facebook and YouTube. People all over are learning to trust God and His agape design law which makes life possible. Thank you for everything you shared with me. May God continue to bless your ministry and lives.

Bradley M., Hinsdale, NY, USA

 

Testimony 21

I am absolutly on fire with the message at Come and Reason! I can’t get enough! I’ve read your book, blog, and articles. I’ve listened to your Bible study podcasts, your radio show, and your series – all excellent! It wasn’t until the past couple of years that I have I like I’m becoming “healthy,” with more to share with others than just beasts and commandments! I used to be a Bible worker and preached when the pastors were gone until I had had enough. I didnt realize at the time what the problem was, but i know now… the message wasn’t properly focused. Now my flame is rekindled. All of your little examples are so perfect in explaining something “complicated” and making it easily understood! Now I’m trying to shape it into a life changing evangelistic series! Thank you!

M.T., USA

 

Testimony 60

Just watched watched lesson 10 in the 1st quarter 2021 bible study classs on Isaiah. I want to thank you for your intellectual spirituality; it’s not an oxymoron! From the point of view of a teacher I also enjoy seeing how much personal pleasure you clearly take in not just tasting, but feasting on God’s word – it reminds me of Jeremiah not being able to hold it in! It makes me smile that your cup is so full and overflowing that you make it to Tuesday’s lesson (on a good day). It just goes to show the richness of God’s Word.

God bless the Come and Reason Team from our church here in Great Britain.

Andrew H., Great Britain

 

Testimony 61

I grew up in a prominent protestant church and had what I like to call religious anxiety. I’ve always had questions about God and Salvation that no one could seem to answer.  I didn’t know how to find resolution. During 2020, at the height of my anxiety, I fell to my knees and begged God to show me truth and light and to give me the hope that I’ve been longing for. Days later, I stumbled upon your online videos and it was like a veil was lifted and EVERYTHING made sense! For the first time in my almost 39 years of life, my religious/spiritual anxiety has lessened. I feel a sense of freedom and peace I’ve NEVER had before… and it’s all because my view of God has changed. Thank you!

Ashleighn C.

 

Testimony 14

We really appreciate your views on the judgment and they make good sense considering our free choice.

Anonymous

 

Testimony 36

Thank you and may God continue to bless you as you share with others the intricacies of how we are all “fearfully and wonderfully made”. I must share that you have opened a whole new world to me, and I have found tremendous healing through what you have shared in two of your books, “Could It Be This Simple?” and “The God Shaped Brain.” I praise God for what you shared, what I have learned, and how I have grown and healed! My prayer is that My Precious Jesus will be seen by others in the way I live, act, talk, etc. and they may be encouraged to know He is truly a GREAT God of LOVE, desiring that no one should perish! God Bless you in your continued endeavors to present Him as He really is!

Joleen H. GA, USA

 

Testimony 47

I can’t even begin to thank you and your ministry enough for introducing me to the Truth about a loving and merciful God! I have my daughter and her in-laws to thank for sharing with me “The God-Shaped Brain” as well as your website. I listen to the Bible study class lessons on my daily walk. May God continue to bless your thirst-quenching ministry!

Liz H., Port Angeles, WA, USA