These are not collateral statements but progressive.  We all have enemies just because of the jobs we hold and positions we take.  But there are fewer who hate us, fewer still who curse us and only a few who are in position to abuse us. 

Our response to them is progressive as well.  We must 'agape' or care about the welfare of those who take positions different than ours.  But we must ramp up our effort and do good to those who hate us, pronounce blessings on those who curse us and toughest of all, pray for those who abuse you.  It is not that prayer is that hard but that those who abuse us make prayer the hardest.

How do you pray for the abuse spouse or friend?  How do you pray for that person who manipulates you and uses you?  It would be easier to just forget them but that is almost impossible.  They stay on our mind for the worst of reasons.  We must take those thoughts captive and give them over to the Lord.  It is the only way we can free ourselves.  Not by trying to hide our thoughts about them but by transforming them in the Lord's name to His justice and our freedom.

Take back what they are taking from your lives.  Give them to the Lord with every rememberance.  End the abusive cycle by talking to the Lord and not them.  And don't do it alone.  That's what your church family is there to provide.

Stand firm and faithful.  Michael