Do We Really Have to Pray for Our Enemies?

The short answer is yes: as difficult as it can be, each of us must take special care

to pray for our enemies. In fact, if there is anyone in this world for whom you

really should make a point of praying, it’s your enemy. Here are some reasons why:

1. Jesus unequivocally told us to.

you: Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you … .” And in

In Matthew 5:44, Jesus says, “But I tell

Luke 6:27-28

do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those

who mistreat you.” So. There it is.

2.

us.

have them do to you, …. ”)

3.

you and your “enemy.”

understand, prayer creates miracles. One of the miracles it creates is

emotional and mental clarity on the part of the one praying. Praying for

your enemies creates in you that clarity, that wisdom, that perspective

you're often otherwise lacking.

, Jesus says, “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies,We’re supposed to do unto others as we would have them do unto(Matthew 17:12 : “So in everything, do to others what you wouldIt greatly enhances your understanding of the situation betweenFor reasons and in ways we mortals will never

4. It relieves stress.

say everyone knows, stress is positively lethal.

most stressful things you can do to your body.

with whom you’re in conflict? Pray for their health and well-being. You’ll end

up being healthier and living longer. That’ll show ‘em!

This one’s connected to #3. As these days it’s safe toBeing angry is one of theReally want to irk someone

5. You want to be a good example of Christianity.

great personality when things are going well for them. It’s when things go

sour that a person's character really shows. Non-Christians -- and

especially non-Christians with whom you’re in conflict -- will notice every

measure of discrepancy between your professed values and what you

actually do and say. Praying for your enemy allows the Holy Spirit to figure

into your relations with the person you’re praying for, which then allows you

to behave toward that person in a way that will mark you as someone they

can, at the very least, respect. More importantly, it allows Christ to see you

as someone he’s proud to have representing him here on earth. The way

not to let Christ down is to pray for your enemies.

Anyone can have a

As the Bible has it:

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one

another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love,

which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your

hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful

(

anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.

(Colossians 3:13-15). And when you stand praying, if you hold anything againstMark 11:25)