Women’s Prayer Team - Week 16
When I was 13 my parents got divorced. I experienced a lot of anger and confusion in this time of my life. I was angry at my dad for moving out and angry at my mom for just letting him leave. I refused to forgive them for the hurt they caused me and my brothers. It became very easy for me to blame myself, as I think a lot of children of divorce do. For years I held onto this grudge that just left me miserable. When I was 19, I rededicated my life to Christ. I remember very clearly when I started walking with Christ again, He convicted me of that grudge. This grudge that I had held onto for 6 years, and now it was time for me to give that completely to Jesus. I was reminded of the cross. Jesus didn't just die for my sins, but He died for my parents as well. Of course there's no arguing with the work done at the cross. I reconciled with my mother and in my heart I had forgiven my father. There is such freedom found on the other side of forgiveness, but first we must forgive those who have wronged us.
PRAYER TIP # 16 - Pray for those who hurt you.
“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you".
Luke 6:27-28
"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us".
Romans 5:8
The command of "love your enemies" sounds so simple, but can be so difficult to obey. Jesus tells us exactly how we are to love our enemies: Do good, bless and pray for those who hurt you. Jesus knew all the times I would mistreat Him, but still went to the cross for me. I have sinned against Jesus more than anyone has sinned against me, and yet He is still kind. Something I have to ask myself daily is, "What does the cross say about this?" and I am immediately reminded of the love of Christ. Jesus doesn't just tell us to pray for our enemies, but He also commands that we do good by them and bless them. Jesus washed the feet of those who betrayed Him and denied Him, so we are without excuse.
Prayer Points:
Thank You for loving us even when we fall short.
Thank You for the work done at the cross.
Thank You for Your Word.
Thank You for Your forgiveness.
Enable me to forgive those who have hurt me through the power of your Holy Spirit.
Suggested Prayer – Pray these words in your heart or out loud:
Dear Heavenly Father, You are kind to us even when we don't deserve it. You keep no record of wrong, and are quick to forgive. You extend a grace that we are undeserving of. We thank You for Your work done at the cross. Help us to love those who hurt us, and keep them in our prayers. Break our hearts for what breaks Yours, Father.
In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.
Your Friend,
Haley Richards
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