23 April

TODAY’S VERSE

But I tell you, love your enemies. Pray for those who hurt you.

Matthew 5:44 ICB

DEVOTIONAL

There are probably lots of people in your life that you love, like your parents, grandparents, siblings and friends. Loving people that love you back is easy! But what about people that have been unkind and have hurt you? Do you love them? Have you ever thought about praying for them? That’s a bit trickier isn’t it?…but it’s what Jesus tells us to do.

The Bible says that God showed His love for us by sending Jesus to die for us while we were still sinners. And Jesus prayed for His enemies even while He was dying on the cross. He said, “Father, forgive them. They don’t know what they are doing.” His enemies are the very people that Jesus came to suffer for. When Jesus said to love your enemies and pray for them, it’s because He wants you to have a heart like His, that loves and offers forgiveness to everyone, especially those that don’t deserve it. It’s not easy, but when you love and pray for your enemies, it brings glory to God, shows people the love of Jesus, and makes you more like Him!

PRAYER

Dear God, thank You for sending Jesus to die for us, even while we were Your enemies. Please help me to love and pray for my enemies, and to see them as You do. In Jesus’ Name.