Life and Relationships

How Do I Love Difficult or Unkind People?

Loving difficult people involves choosing patience, kindness, and prayer for them despite their behavior, following Christ's example of loving others sacrificially even when it is not reciprocated.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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Christian Living

Biblical explanation

Jesus's command goes beyond loving those who are easy to love, teaching, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you” (). Paul describes love in practical terms—patient, kind, not easily provoked, bearing and enduring all things ()—showing that biblical love is a decision and practice more than merely an emotion. This kind of love does not require ignoring harmful behavior or eliminating healthy boundaries; it can coexist with limiting exposure to abusive situations while still praying for the other person's good and refusing to return evil for evil (). Loving difficult people ultimately reflects the character of God, who showed love to humanity while it was still in rebellion against Him ().

In brief

Jesus's command goes beyond loving those who are easy to love, teaching, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you” ().

Bible references

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Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.