In this injunction are summed up the last six of the commandments (Matt. 22:40). Said Christ, “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies” (Matt. 5:43, 44).

Even critics admit that the statement, “Love thy neighbour as thyself,” was a most unusual pronouncement for that day and age of the world. It is unusual for any age. Selfishness prevails today, as it ever has, and there is still little love for a neighbor when one’s interests conflict with his. Usually, it is every man for himself. If we can do our neighbor some good without hurting ourselves, we may approve of it. To a great extent love for one’s neighbor is but enlightened self-interest.

 It is a human weakness to desire to “get even” with one who has done us harm, but the Bible countenances no such procedure. Says Paul, “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath” (Rom. 12:19). To bear a grudge is quite useless. It does no one good, and does the bearer much harm. It sours the disposition, and gives a warped view of life.