Pray, Even for Them
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:43-48
“But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (v.4)
It is human nature to react defensively when attacked. Some sort of self-preservation mode kicks in and we respond to protect ourselves. Once the initial shock fades and we begin to think through what happened, anger builds. The injustice of the lies that were told, or the pain that was inflicted creates a sense of victimization.
Our hearts cry out for justice, if not from some other authority, at least self-imposed justice. We plot revenge. We feel justified in our ill-will. We are certain that the person who wronged us had evil motives. They deserve to be punished.
But another Voice speaks from the Word and into our hearts. He knows what we have heard. He knows that other voices have told us to get even, to hate, that our feelings are justified. Gently, he calls us to kneel with him. He says, “Let’s pray for them.”
In prayer the heart is freed from the bitter chains of hatred and the longings for revenge. He lifts us up and walks with us to face the one who hates us, so that together we might impart some blessing in love. He helps us do what we cannot do on our own.