In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus tells us to “pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). What is that all about?
When we pray for our persecutors, the Lord might help our “enemies” to face up to the wrong they have done, to repent, and change their ways.
When we pray for our persecutors, we may notice that God inspires us to undo some of the harm our enemies have caused. We may look for ways that we can reach out and help others who have been hurt in the same way in which we were hurt.
When we pray for our persecutors, it is amazing that God changes our own attitudes toward our “enemies.” We might start looking at them with gentle, non-judgmental eyes.
It’s good to remember that God never gives up on any of his children. He longs to pour out his love and mercy…even on our enemies. When we sincerely pray for our persecutors and trust God to work in their lives we, ourselves, can be an instrument of God’s love and mercy!
Lord, soften my heart toward my “enemies.” Teach me how to pray for Your blessings upon them.
