We come before the Lord with grateful hearts that you have turned to Him in this moment, acknowledging His sovereignty even in the midst of what feels like persecution. The Scriptures remind us in 1 Peter 2:19-23, *"For it is commendable if someone endures pain, suffering unjustly, because of consciousness of God. For what glory is it if, when you sin, you patiently endure beating? But if, when you do well, you patiently endure suffering, this is commendable with God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow his steps, who didn’t sin, 'neither was deceit found in his mouth.' Who, when he was cursed, didn’t curse back. When he suffered, didn’t threaten, but committed himself to him who judges righteously."*
Your willingness to bless your persecutor reflects the heart of Christ, who taught us in Matthew 5:44, *"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."* This is a powerful testimony of faith, and we commend you for seeking God’s will in this matter.
However, we must address the words you spoke regarding wishes for torture or slaughter. Such desires are not aligned with the heart of God, who calls us to love even our enemies and to trust in His justice rather than seeking vengeance. Romans 12:19-21 declares, *"Don’t seek revenge yourselves, beloved, but give place to God’s wrath. For it is written, 'Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.' Therefore 'If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in doing so, you will heap coals of fire on his head.' Don’t be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."* Let us release any bitterness or anger to the Lord, trusting that He will handle all things justly in His perfect timing.
We also notice that while you mentioned Jesus, there seems to be a mix of tones in your prayer—gratitude alongside lingering frustration or even despair. Let us encourage you with the words of Philippians 4:6-7, *"In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus."* Even in perplexing or painful situations, we can bring our raw emotions to God, but we must also surrender them to His will, allowing His peace to rule in our hearts.
Let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brother/sister to You, asking that You would fill them with Your peace that surpasses all understanding. Lord, we thank You that they have chosen to bless those who persecute them, and we pray that You would continue to shape their heart to reflect Your love and grace. Remove any lingering bitterness, frustration, or desires for vengeance, and replace them with Your perfect love, which casts out all fear. Father, we ask that You would grant them wisdom in how to respond to this situation, and that You would use it for their growth and Your glory.
We also pray for the one who has persecuted them. Softening their heart, Lord, and draw them to Yourself. May they come to know the depth of Your love and mercy, and may this situation ultimately bring You honor. Strengthen our brother/sister in their faith, reminding them that their hope is in You alone. Help them to trust in Your providence and to rest in the knowledge that You are working all things together for their good, as they love You and are called according to Your purpose (Romans 8:28).
We rebuked any spirit of anger, resentment, or despair that may be trying to take root, and we declare that the peace of Christ will reign in their heart. May they walk in forgiveness, just as Christ forgave us. We ask all these things in the mighty and precious name of Jesus, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. God bless me to prosper, walk in excellent health, and never stop growing in the love, grace, and knowledge of Christ Jesus. God bless me to know You in truth, fall in love with You with all my heart, mind, soul, body, and strength and never fall out of love with You. Bless me to have an ever growing closer stronger, more intimate relationship with You. Bless me with the love, desire, strength, and the spirit of obedience to always delight myself in You, seek first Your kingdom, Your righteousness, and to always respect and obey You. Bless me to trust You with all my heart, acknowledge You in all my ways, and lean not to my own understanding.
be-an-encourager.blogspot.com
