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This week in our Wild Invitation series, we're walking through Saul's unforgettable transformation into Paul—a story that reminds us just how powerful a true encounter with Jesus can be. We unpack what it looks like to surrender fully to the Holy Spirit, even in the areas of our lives we've held back. Through raw stories and biblical insight, we talk about how real change often begins with humility, obedience, and the courage to say yes. Whether you're craving deeper faith or wondering if God can still use your gifts, this episode will challenge and comfort you in all the right ways. In This Episode [00:00] Winter Coffee Chats + Kicking Off Acts 3 [03:10] Triggered by Bible Characters? Let's Talk Paul [07:00] Updates and a Little Behind-the-Scenes Fun [08:45] Catching Up: From Stephen's Martyrdom to Saul's Mission [11:00] The Road to Damascus: A Life-Changing Encounter [14:00] Real-Life Testimonies of Transformation [20:00] Humility, Surrender, and the Power of Saying Yes [23:30] Ananias and Why We Need Community in Our Faith [29:00] God Doesn't Waste Who You Are—He Redeems It [33:00] Final Thoughts: Transformation in Every Season ORDER OUR NEW STUDY! This seven-week, verse-by-verse study through the book of Acts invites you to embrace the unpredictable, sometimes challenging adventure of Spirit-led living that characterized the early church. Thanks to Our Sponsors Piper and Leaf: Visit PiperandLeaf.com to pick up an Advent Tea set for you or someone you love! NIV Application Study Bible - Grab your copy today! Winshape: Learn more or submit your application today! If you'd like to partner with For The Girl as a sponsor, fill out our Advertise With Us form! Follow us!
This presentation by Dr. Jessica ChenFeng, LMFT, titled “Relating to the Internal and Relational Wrestlings of Bible Characters: Jacob's Family in Context,” was recorded on October 7, 2025. The lecture is part of the 2025 conference “Biblical Theology in Asian America: Family, Migration, and Divine Presence,” presented by the Center for Asian American Christianity at Princeton Theological Seminary and co-hosted with Fuller Theological Seminary's Chinese Studies Center. You can learn more about this conference here: https://ptsem.edu/academics/centers/center-for-asian-american-christianity/btiaa2025/.Description: “We each grew up with a relationship to characters of the Bible: which character was someone to emulate? Who was not the ideal model for a leader, a parent, or spouse? These assessments can sometimes parallel the way our families talked about relatives or community members: the good daughter who takes care of her parents, the terrible church elder who squandered money or the faithful pastor who sacrifices so much. In this presentation, we consider Jacob's family system: intergenerational and gendered hopes, betrayal, alignment and rejection that allow us opportunities to connect with their contextual realities and curiosities for our own Asian American Christian lives today. We will consider the complex nuances of Bible characters beyond the one-dimensional individual perspectives of their personhood and behaviors.“This presentation will invite attendees to reconsider our assessments (judgements) of Bible characters and increase our empathy (of others and self) through understanding Jacob's family with a sociocontextual and relational lens. It will highlight relationships in context, reflecting on dynamics of rupture and opportunities for repair.”Jessica ChenFeng, PhD, LMFT is an associate professor of marriage and family therapy at Fuller Theological Seminary. She has been a practicing MFT for almost 20 years and consults with academic, healthcare and church organizations to improve the well-being of people within their relationships and communities. She is the director of Fuller's Asian American Well-being Collaboratory. Her research, clinical and community work center around Asian American identities/relationships, generation, trauma, and Christian spirituality. She resides in the greater Los Angeles area with her spouse and two children. Whenever she gets the chance, she loves reconnecting with her love for analogue: paper planners and stationery, baking, and sewing.Time Stamps:00:51 Introducing Dr. Jessica ChenFeng02:11 Dr. ChenFeng's Personal Journey and Calling04:24 Exploring Wellbeing and Belonging06:11 Engaging with Bible Characters in Context12:25 Intergenerational Impacts and Personal Stories19:44 Understanding Relationships and Systems23:57 Empathy and Complexity in Relationships35:17 Conclusion: Pursuing Fullness of LifePhoto by Dilip Poddar on Unsplash This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit caacptsem.substack.com
Send us a textMoses 120 years of PurposeHal Habecker continues his series on How Characters from the Bible Finished their LivesWe meet Moses in Exodus 2, where God protected him from Pharaoh's death threats and sovereignly led him to grow up in Pharaoh's house during his first 40 years.At age 80, Moses was entrusted with leading Israel out of Egypt. Despite his failures, including striking the rock at Meribah (Numbers 20), Moses pressed on to fulfill his purpose. One of his final tasks was completing Joshua's training and commissioning him to lead Israel into the promised land.Then Moses called to Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, "Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land which the Lord has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance." (Deuteronomy 31.7)God completed Moses' life with a personal burial. What a picture of beauty. God was pleased with His servant's life of 120 years.Support the show"Finishing Well Ministries aims to encourage and inspire aging Christians to understand and embrace God's calling in their later years, equipping them to actively pursue and fulfill His calling. FWM provides materials, events, and other on-line resources that provide shared insights focused on finishing our lives well. We also recruit and train volunteers who lead and encourage small groups around the world to fulfill God's mission for them in these critically important years." - Hal Habecker Website: www.finishingwellministries.org Email us: Hal@finishingwellministries.orgFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/finishingwellministriesSupport Our Ministry: https://www.finishingwellministries.org/donateAre there biblical principles to help us understand how to finish well?Explore the Seven Essentials for Finishing Well. Learn more.Thanks for listening as we all strive to live and finish life well!
Send us a textPeter & John: Faithful to the EndJesus called Peter and John away from their work as fishermen to follow Him and become "fishers of men" (Matthew 4.18-22). Though we don't know their exact ages when called, Christ's call on their lives was a lifelong commitment.Peter's JourneyFrom his brash early days to his denial of Christ, Peter was transformed by the resurrection and Pentecost into a bold leader of the early church. Even when he faltered years later in Antioch (Galatians 2.11-14), he accepted correction and continued serving faithfully.In his second letter, written shortly before his death, Peter exhorts believers: "Be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 3.17-18)John;s LegacyJohn, once known as a "Son of Thunder," became known as the apostle of love. In his final 15-20 years (AD 80-98), he wrote five New Testament books:The Gospel According to John (AD 80) First, Second and Third John (AD 90-95) The Book of Revelation (AD 94-98)His most productive literary ministry came in his elderly years, showing how God can use us powerfully in every season of life.God's call on our lives, whenever we first said "Yes" to following Him, is to be faithful till the end. The idea of "Retirement" is not an option for us as Christians. We live in obedience to His claim on our lives every day that He entrusts to us.Support the show"Finishing Well Ministries aims to encourage and inspire aging Christians to understand and embrace God's calling in their later years, equipping them to actively pursue and fulfill His calling. FWM provides materials, events, and other on-line resources that provide shared insights focused on finishing our lives well. We also recruit and train volunteers who lead and encourage small groups around the world to fulfill God's mission for them in these critically important years." - Hal Habecker Website: www.finishingwellministries.org Email us: Hal@finishingwellministries.orgFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/finishingwellministriesSupport Our Ministry: https://www.finishingwellministries.org/donateAre there biblical principles to help us understand how to finish well?Explore the Seven Essentials for Finishing Well. Learn more.Thanks for listening as we all strive to live and finish life well!
Send us a textDaniel: Faithful through the DecadesWe meet Daniel in captivity when he was perhaps about 16 years old (Daniel 1.1-7). From the beginning, "Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the king's choice food" (Daniel 1.8).Daniel served under Babylonian and Persian rulers for at least 65 years. In his 80s, he was still going strong, battling in prayer against spiritual forces (Daniel 10). The angel Michael gave him these final words: "But as for you, go your way to the end; then you will enter into rest and rise again for your allotted portion at the end of the age" (Daniel 12.13).Daniel was fearless, confident, dependent on God, and served faithfully under pagan rulers. God is looking for and calling "Daniels" 3 men and women of all ages - who will serve God through all their years.Support the show"Finishing Well Ministries aims to encourage and inspire aging Christians to understand and embrace God's calling in their later years, equipping them to actively pursue and fulfill His calling. FWM provides materials, events, and other on-line resources that provide shared insights focused on finishing our lives well. We also recruit and train volunteers who lead and encourage small groups around the world to fulfill God's mission for them in these critically important years." - Hal Habecker Website: www.finishingwellministries.org Email us: Hal@finishingwellministries.orgFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/finishingwellministriesSupport Our Ministry: https://www.finishingwellministries.org/donateAre there biblical principles to help us understand how to finish well?Explore the Seven Essentials for Finishing Well. Learn more.Thanks for listening as we all strive to live and finish life well!
DID YOU KNOW? | You Can See Jesus in These 'J' Bible Characters by GospelBells
Send us a textJehoiada & Jehoshabeath: Faithful to the EndThe story of Jehoiada ("Joe") and Jehoshabeath ("Beth") demonstrates how elderly believers can have tremendous impact even in their final decades.Age 83When evil Queen Athaliah destroyed the royal offspring to take the throne, "Joe" (about 83 years old) and "Beth" (around 80) rescued little Joash and hid him in the house of God.Age 90After protecting Joash for 7 years, "Joe" orchestrated his coronation as king at age 7, confronted the wicked queen Athaliah, and helped restore proper worship.Age 90-130For the next 40 years, "Joe" served as a mentor and spiritual guide to King Joash, helping him reign righteously.Age 130"Joe" died at the remarkable age of 130, having served God faithfully for 47 years from age 83-130.Tragically, after Jehoiada's death, Joash turned away from God and even had Jehoiada's son Zechariah executed when he prophesied against the king's unfaithfulness. This reminds us that while we can have tremendous influence, each person must ultimately make their own choices before God.Support the show"Finishing Well Ministries aims to encourage and inspire aging Christians to understand and embrace God's calling in their later years, equipping them to actively pursue and fulfill His calling. FWM provides materials, events, and other on-line resources that provide shared insights focused on finishing our lives well. We also recruit and train volunteers who lead and encourage small groups around the world to fulfill God's mission for them in these critically important years." - Hal Habecker Website: www.finishingwellministries.org Email us: Hal@finishingwellministries.orgFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/finishingwellministriesSupport Our Ministry: https://www.finishingwellministries.org/donateAre there biblical principles to help us understand how to finish well?Explore the Seven Essentials for Finishing Well. Learn more.Thanks for listening as we all strive to live and finish life well!
Send us a textOur story regarding Eli begins not with Eli but with God's judge who will succeed him. God's successor to Eli will be the great prophet/judge Samuel so we begin with his birth and background.Samuel's BirthSamuel was born out of a godly family (1 Samuel 1.1-2.11). Hannah prayed for a son and promised to dedicate him to the Lord. Eli blessed her prayer, and when Samuel was weaned, Hannah brought him to serve in the temple under Eli.Eli's FailureBy contrast, Eli's sons were wicked men (1 Samuel 2.12-17). They abused their priestly position and "despised the offering of the Lord." Though Eli knew of their sins, he did not restrain them.Why do you kick at My sacrifice and at My offering which I have commanded in My dwelling, and honor your sons above Me? (1 Samuel 2.29).God revealed to Samuel the judgment that He would carry out on Eli because he did not rebuke his sons (1 Samuel 3.10-14). When the Philistines defeated Israel and captured the ark of God, both of Eli's sons were killed. Upon hearing the news, Eli fell backward from his seat, broke his neck, and died at age 98.The tragedy extended to the next generation 3 Eli's daughter-in-law died in childbirth, naming her son Ichabod, saying, "The glory has departed from Israel."Support the show"Finishing Well Ministries aims to encourage and inspire aging Christians to understand and embrace God's calling in their later years, equipping them to actively pursue and fulfill His calling. FWM provides materials, events, and other on-line resources that provide shared insights focused on finishing our lives well. We also recruit and train volunteers who lead and encourage small groups around the world to fulfill God's mission for them in these critically important years." - Hal Habecker Website: www.finishingwellministries.org Email us: Hal@finishingwellministries.orgFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/finishingwellministriesSupport Our Ministry: https://www.finishingwellministries.org/donateAre there biblical principles to help us understand how to finish well?Explore the Seven Essentials for Finishing Well. Learn more.Thanks for listening as we all strive to live and finish life well!
In this episode, Ron Kelleher examines five Bible characters who faced significant tests—and failed. But this isn't just a walk through Scripture's darker moments. It's a leadership masterclass in what not to do when pressure rises, pride creeps in, or fear clouds judgment. From King Saul's insecurity to the Israelites' fear at the edge of the Promised Land, these stories reveal what happens when leaders lose sight of God's guidance and fall victim to their circumstances. Each character serves as both a cautionary tale and a reflective mirror for modern-day Christian leaders. You'll discover: Why partial obedience (like Saul's) is still disobedience. How Cain's unchecked resentment spiraled into disaster. What the rich young ruler teaches us about comfort vs. calling. Why Judas's regret didn't lead to restoration—but Peter's did. How the Israelites missed their breakthrough by listening to fear. More than history lessons, these profiles offer practical guidance for Christian leaders navigating difficult decisions, internal conflict, and spiritual crossroads. Ron equips you with five biblical leadership principles that can help you respond to trials with wisdom, humility, and faith—so you don't repeat the same mistakes. If you're facing pressure, temptation, or failure today, this episode is a reminder: God's grace can redeem your story, but you must respond with faith, not fear.
This week we dive back into our Queer coded series and talk about David and Jonathan, the obviously queer power couple of the Old Testament. Also we talk about Michael Tait but at the time we recorded the worst of the allegations against him had not yet surfaced and there are more coming. Please keep that in mind as you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For Pride Month we are visiting some of the Queer Coded Characters of the Bible. This week we are checking out Naomi and Ruth; our favorite queer curious power couple. We now have a Discord now for our Patrons! You can join here: Patreon.com/gohomebible This podcast is edited by Elizabeth Nordenholt from Podcat Audio: https://elizabethnordenholt.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
She had arrived. Racing out the door of his home, Ashton almost tripped over himself, making sure he didn't keep her waiting. And there she was, getting out of the black, sleek BMW sports car her parents had gifted her for graduation. Sleek and beautiful, just like her. She was everything anyone could wish for. She looked like a model straight out of a magazine, and she was here for him! The slight movement of her lips indicated she was happy he'd come out to greet her. "Jayla, so glad you could make it. Come in and meet my friends." Ashton grinned, taking her slim, smooth manicured hand in his. "It's not going to be a church thing, right?" Jayla's tense voice asked as she slightly pulled back on his hand. "No, no," Ashton hastened to assure her. "It's just a party with some people I go to church with, but no church stuff." Ashton promised. The slight movement of her lips showed he had answered correctly. Ashton smiled and pulled her along. ____________________________________________________ Join us as we dive into the story of Jayla and Ashton, the modern Jezebel and Ahab. They are your age and go to the exclusive Page High Academy, where all the Bible Characters (if they were teens today) attend. ALSO We did a mic roam and asked girls your age 3 questions: • Would you be willing to leave the church to keep a guy? • Would you date a non-believer? Why? Why not? • What things in your life pull you away from God? What did they say? Tune in to find out. ___________________________________ Visit our website Shop our books - The Royal Palace Artist of the Month: We The Kingdom Artist on Spotify music Keep in the loop by signing to our GIGI Notes HERE DON'T FORGET TO SUBSCRIBE Hosts: Esther & Steph Mix & effects: Stephanie Giselle Purple Planet Music https://www.purple-planet.com/ email us: writegigi5@gmail.com Write by post GIGI Teen Radio PO BOX 6505 Upper Mt Gravatt QLD 4122 music credit: Purple planet music All music played on the podcast radio is covered under the APRA AMCOS Online Mini Licence.
Then suddenly, she locked eyes with him! "Hey, aren't you part of those freaks?" she accused. Pete felt like he swallowed a rock. What could he say? Then, with a mind of their own, his lips parted, and he croaked out a no! "Yeah, she's right," a member of the opposing team stated. I'm sure I've seen you at the stations with the other goodie two shoes," he smirked. Pete felt his face grown hot as more eyes turned to watch him. "I don't know them," Pete growled. "Yeah, I've seen you, plus you talk and act differently. ," someone Pete wasn't sure he'd seen agreed. Pete couldn't take it. He felt humiliated. Suddenly, like something out of a nightmare, Pete heard words come out of his mouth. He didn't even realise he knew. He cursed and yelled, denying any affiliation with the church or Pastor Jay. ____________________________________________________ Join us as we dive into the story of Pete, the modernised Peter. Peter is a guy your age who goes to the exclusive Page High Academy where all the Bible Characters (if they were teens today) attend. ALSO We did a mic roam and asked girls your age 3 questions: • Have you ever felt embarrassed to admit you're Christian? • Have you ever pretended you're not a Christian? • Have you ever been bold about your faith and not worried about what people think? What did they say? Tune in to find out. ___________________________________ Read story on blog Visit our website Shop our books Artist of the month: Phil Wickham Keep in the loop by signing to our GIGI Notes HERE DON'T FORGET TO SUBSCRIBE Hosts: Esther & Steph Mix & effects: Stephanie Giselle Purple Planet Music https://www.purple-planet.com/ email us: writegigi5@gmail.com Write by post GIGI Teen Radio PO BOX 6505 Upper Mt Gravatt QLD 4122 music credit: Purple planet music All music played on the podcast radio is covered under the APRA AMCOS Online Mini Licence.
It is FRI-YAY! And shout-out day. As we wrap up our Bible Characters series with Joseph today, we learn with Pastor Jeff that Joseph forgave his brothers and saw God's hand in his life. Genesis 45:5-7 5 And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. 6 For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will be no plowing and reaping. 7 But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.
This is the last week of the Bible Characters of the Old Testament series, and Pastor Jeff will share about Joseph. Today, we learn that Joseph teaches us that even in hard situations, we can serve God in His strength, and the Lord can work wonders through us. Genesis 39:2-4 2 The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. 3 When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did, 4 Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned.
Happy Monday! We are in week 5 of our Bible Characters series, and we will learn more about Ruth with Pastor Jeff. Today, we learn about her kindness. Ruth 1:8 8 Then Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, “Go back, each of you, to your mother's home. May the Lord show you kindness, as you have shown kindness... to me.
There are two Salomes in the Bible. Both are New Testament women, but have vastly different characters. The Salome # 2 that I focus today on appears later in the New Testament. She is named, and she appears several times. Let's get to know her.Previous blog entries in the Little Known Bible Characters Series:Little Known Bible Characters #6: King ChedorlaomerLittle Known Bible Characters #5: Harbonah the EunuchLittle Known Bible Characters #4: EutychusLittle Known Bible Characters #3: TrophimusLittle Known Bible Characters #2: ‘The List of Offenders'Little Known Bible Characters #1: Iddo
Looking at her watch, she groaned under her breath and wished she hadn't rostered Mia on to help her any of the nights. Makenzie stormed out of the kitchen and into the church, narrowing her eyes when she saw Mia inside just standing there listening! How irresponsible! “Why aren't you in the kitchen helping me? She hissed, pulling her sister out the door. “Sorry, but I love when Sally and her sister sing. The whole program has been amazing. You've missed 3 nights already. You ready shouldn't be stuck down there.” “Do you think people want cold food, Mia? We're here to serve the church, not be selfish!” ____________________________________________________ Join us as we dive into the story of Makenzie, the modernised Martha. Mackenzie is a girl your age who goes to the exclusive Page High Academy where all the Bible Characters (if they were teens today) attend. ALSO We did a mic roam and asked girls your age 3 questions: • How do you handle stress? • How do you act when you're stressed? • What do you turn to or do when you're stressed? What did they say? Tune in to find out. ___________________________________ Read story on blog Visit our website Shop our books Artist of the month: Riley Clemmons Keep in the loop by signing to our GIGI Notes HERE DON'T FORGET TO SUBSCRIBE Hosts: Esther & Steph Mix & effects: Stephanie Giselle Purple Planet Music https://www.purple-planet.com/ email us: writegigi5@gmail.com Write by post GIGI Teen Radio PO BOX 6505 Upper Mt Gravatt QLD 4122 music credit: Purple planet music All music played on the podcast radio is covered under the APRA AMCOS Online Mini Licence.
This week, we will learn about David with Pastor Jeff in our Bible Characters series. The Bible tells us that David was a man after God's heart. This means that he was dependent on God in everything. Psalm 23:1-3 1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake.
This is our second week on Bible Characters from the Old Testament. Last week, we learned about Daniel's life, and this week, we will learn about Esther. Pastor Jeff shares that where you are now is no accident. God has placed you there for a purpose! Esther 4:14 14 If you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will come to the Jewish people from another place, but you and your father's family will be destroyed. Who knows, perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time as this.”
This week, we will start a new series about Bible Characters from the Old Testament. We will learn from Daniel, David, Joseph, Ruth, Noah, and Esther and be encouraged to live by their example. This week, we will learn more about Daniel and his wisdom. Daniel 2:16 16 At this, Daniel went in to the king and asked for time, so that he might interpret the dream for him.
In episode #625 of our podcast, titled “5 Hidden Gems of Wisdom from Obscure Bible Characters,” we delve into the stories of overlooked yet pivotal figures in the Bible who provide profound insights for today's leaders. From Shamgar's simplicity to Abigail's tactfulness, these characters demonstrate that true leadership often emerges from humble beginnings and challenging situations. We explore how their lives offer invaluable lessons on utilizing what we have with faith, embracing peacemaking, the power of delegation, the necessity of bold actions, and the significance of faithful service. This episode encourages leaders to find strength and wisdom in unlikely places, reinforcing the notion that God's qualifications for leadership are rooted in faithfulness and character, not prominence.
by Reagan McClenny
Youth Sunday at KCC First Service: Owen Shetler Second Service: Jack Trumble The post My Favorite Bible Characters appeared first on Kalkaska Church of Christ.
Pastor Mike Ray
Esther: Tracing the Hand of the Invisible God (Part 4)Scripture: Esther 4Sermon Preached by Chris Lewis on September 1, 2024→ Check out more sermons
Welcome to our final episode of the OVERRATED/UNDERRATED SUMMER! And also, our final episode of season 4!! We brought on our good friend of the show, Noah Bearden to rank our top 5 most underrated Bible characters. Jacob and Noah talk about who they think are the most overlooked characters in all of the Bible. Check it out! Follow us on Instagram and X - search for @therankerspodcast You can email us for anything at therankerspodcast@gmail.com Don't forget to like, rate, and review us on whatever platform you're listening on!
Bible Characters: David
Jonathan: Faith over FearIn today's message, we will explore how Jonathan was able to step out in faith and trust God, even when everyone else shrunk back in fear.
Episode 44 Michael teams up with friends from his home state of Arkansas to revisit the "Draft" of Bible Characters to form basketball teams. Which team is going to win? Did they pick the right ones? Who did they miss? Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/PWWsBTuvovs Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8 Find more Take 2 Theology content at https://take2pod.wordpress.com/
This Too Will Pass, Word Phase Out, Brant Hansen Senate, Lover Your Enemies, Bible Characters, Follow Jesus, BONUS CONTENT: Brant Book Signing, Little Tea Parties; Quotes: “If you trust God, tears are temporary.” “If you could start exploring and get right back to me.” “You're never more like God than when you love your enemies.”