Some years ago, I was talking to a friend at church about a horrible accident that happened to someone we knew. I remarked, “I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy.” He replied, “I don’t have any enemies.” Many in today’s culture would say that’s a good thing, that we should not have any enemies; but is it?
The only way that one can go through life without any enemies is to not take a stand on anything and agree with everything. That is not the life of the Southern gentleman. Living an honorable life means that we must take a stand on issues that most of society will disagree with. That does not mean violent conflict though – far from it. The Holy Bible tells us that we, as Christians, are to love our enemies. That says that we are expected to have enemies, otherwise why would be instructed to love them?
Who would fall into the category of an enemy of a Southern gentleman? Much of the Hollywood “entertainment” industry would be a good start – nothing beats Hollywood when it comes to destroying the traditional culture of The Old South and all that it stands for. Who would you count as an enemy – someone that you have taken a stand against? If no person or group comes to mind, then have you ever really taken a stand against evil?
Excellent piece and posted.
If you have no enemies, then you are a fence straddler…Rev.3:14-16
In this day, if you have no enemies, you’ll be swallowed up by the mob as it marches off into perdition.
Jesus Christ, the perfect man, had plenty of enemies. “Crucify him,” they cried.
Excellent points, gentlemen – thanks for the comments! It’s good to see replies from a Christian perspective – so much of the world turns its back on the source of all wisdom.
Very true, Sir!
The truth will always be at odds with the lies of the world.
I think the Latin Vulgate and Greek New Testament make a distinction between two kinds of enemies, a personal enemy (inimicus) and an enemy of your people (hostis). IIRC, Jesus admonished us to love our personal enemies (inimicos) not our national enemies (hostes). After all, if you turn the other cheek to your hostes, he won’t slap you, he will stick a knife into you.
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