14 When Grace Interrupts Hate

When the world says “get even,” Jesus says “forgive.”

In this episode of Maintaining Fire, Desmond Flores explores how the world treats its enemies versus how Christ calls us to respond. From Paul’s story in Acts 9 to the powerful reminder in Romans 5:8–10, we’ll see that God’s mercy can transform even His greatest enemies into His greatest messengers.

 

The truth is—we were once enemies of God ourselves. Yet Jesus met us with love, not judgment. Through Paul’s conversion, we discover that grace interrupts hate, turns hearts, and calls us to respond differently when others wrong us.

 

📖 Main Scriptures:

Acts 9 (Conversion of Saul)

Romans 5:8-10 (While we were enemies, Christ died for us)

Matthew 5:44 (Love your enemies)

Ephesians 4:31-32 (Forgive as Christ forgave you)

 

📊 Did You Know?

A 2023 Barna study found that 68% of Americans admire forgiveness but believe it’s unrealistic in most situations. Jesus proved otherwise—His forgiveness made us family.

Reflection Questions:

• Am I reflecting Jesus or reacting like the world?

• Who do I need to forgive today?

• What would it look like to love them the way Christ loved me?