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You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.  Matthew 5:38 – 48 (NIV)

ACTION PLAN: Create a new prayer list. Write down the names of people that irritate you, or you feel are against you. This list isn't primarily about praying that God would change them. It's to remind you to ask God to bless their health, finances, families, or impact at work. It can also remind you to change your reactions to them so that they can see the love of God for them through you. Pray for one a day, going through your list, each day for the next month.

ACTION PLAN: Homework (from sermon): Practice the strategic art of over-underreaction. Choose something that happens at home on a pretty regular basis that perturbs you, disturbs you, upsets you and/or gets on your nerves. Think about your typical reaction. Ask yourself, "What would a 'like my Father in heaven did to me' reaction look like?" Choose to respond to the irritations the way your Father would react.