Text: Proverbs 25:21&22
Memory Verse: “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).
Many people find it difficult to pray for the prosperity of their perceived enemies or wish them well. Some even go as far as praying terrible prayers; asking for their enemies to die, go mad, or suffer harm.
I remember vividly how, in my younger days, I prayed against my father’s concubine, who was causing serious turmoil in our family. I uttered harsh prayers, expecting her downfall, but surprisingly, her relationship with my father grew stronger. Then one day, the Holy Spirit spoke to me and instructed me to start praying for her salvation and showing her mercy. I obeyed. Not long after, things began to unravel in her life, and eventually, God took care of her His own way.
It was a sober lesson: it is not our place to pronounce judgement on anyone, no matter the offence. God is the only righteous Judge and the rightful Avenger. He knows exactly what each person deserves and how best to intervene. Consider Saul of Tarsus, once a feared persecutor of the early church, but after his encounter with Jesus, he became one of the greatest apostles. David, in his wisdom, prayed against the counsel of Ahithophel, not the man himself. Ultimately, Ahithophel took his own life. The Lord Jesus instructs us to love our enemies, bless those who curse us, and pray for those who mistreat us. Trust God with your battles. He will surely reward your obedience and faith.
Prayer Points:
1. Father, release grace for handling my perceived enemies the way You expect.
2. Lord, I pray for mercy and salvation for my enemies today.