Text: Luke 6:28 Topic: How to get rid of resentment Big Idea: We can get rid of our resentment by loving, serving, and praying for our enemies. Keywords: Anger, human; Bitterness; Enemies; Grudges; Hate; Hatred; Love for Enemies; Resentment Introduction . All of us possess resentment towards people we don't like. . The test of Christian discipleship is to be able to love the people we don't like. "Love your enemies." . The New Testament contains three words that represent different aspects of love: eros (physical, romantic love), philia (mutual friendship), and agape (recognition of others' needs). . The Bible always uses agape whenever love is commanded as a duty toward our neighbor or enemy. . Jesus doesn't command that we like our enemies; he commands that we desire their welfare and highest good. "Do good to those who hate you." . Illustration: During the Revolutionary War, General Washington granted a pardon to a man whose enemy reported his innocence. . Christians can be distinguished from the world by our willingness to return good for evil, just like God did. - Romans 12:20 "Pray for those who treat you spitefully." . Jesus emphasizes this command through repetition (v. 28). . You cannot pray for a person and continue to hate them. Conclusion . Everyone who chooses to hold on to anger and hate places themselves in danger. - Matthew 5:22 - Illustration: A doctor with a defective heart died in the middle of a heated argument with a colleague. - Illustration: A Christian in ancient Alexandria experienced the miracle of being able to endure the insults of his peers. . Big Idea: Use Jesus' formula to rid yourself of destructive resentment.