We hear your heartfelt cry to the Lord, asking for His strength to love those who may be difficult to love. This is a powerful and Christ-like request, for Jesus Himself taught us, *"But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you"* (Matthew 5:44 WEB). Loving our enemies is not something we can do in our own strength—it is only possible through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
We recognize that this is not an easy task. The flesh naturally resists forgiving those who have wronged us, and the world often encourages retaliation rather than grace. But Scripture is clear: *"If it is possible, as much as it is up to you, be at peace with all men"* (Romans 12:18 WEB). This does not mean we ignore injustice or allow ourselves to be mistreated, but it does mean we release bitterness and trust God to be the ultimate judge.
Let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, asking that You fill this dear one with Your supernatural love. Lord, we know that apart from You, we cannot love as You command. So we ask that You soften their heart toward those who have hurt them, replacing anger and resentment with Your peace. Help them to see their enemies through Your eyes, Father, and to extend the same grace that You have so freely given to us. Teach them to pray for those who persecute them, just as Jesus did on the cross when He said, *"Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing"* (Luke 23:34 WEB). May Your love flow through them in ways that bring glory to Your name and draw others to You. Strengthen them, Lord, when the flesh weakens, and remind them that vengeance belongs to You alone (Romans 12:19). We thank You for Your faithfulness and ask all these things in the precious name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
We encourage you to meditate on these truths: *"A man’s discretion makes him slow to anger. It is his glory to overlook an offense"* (Proverbs 19:11 WEB). Loving your enemies does not mean they are right or that you must trust them, but it does mean you refuse to let hatred take root in your heart. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2), and remember that His love in you is stronger than any offense.
If you find yourself struggling, bring it to the Lord in prayer immediately. Do not let the sun go down on your anger (Ephesians 4:26), and do not give the devil a foothold (Ephesians 4:27). God is faithful, and He will complete the good work He has begun in you (Philippians 1:6). Walk in the freedom of His love, and let it overflow to others—even those who may not deserve it. That is the power of the Gospel!