Pray for your offender.
Jesus tells us it is not enough to let go of malice toward our enemies. We must go the next difficult step as well and cultivate benevolence. We are truly practicing forgiveness when we can honestly endorse whatever is good and healing for the person who caused our suffering. To bless and not curse, to pray for rather than to condemn, shows a heart that is surrendered to the rule of love.
Ponder
“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:43-45)
Pledge
With God’s help I will not only set aside my vengeful desires but will ask God to show favor and goodness to this person who hurt me.
Review
Practice #1: Forgive what you can.
Practice #2: Seek forgiveness from others.
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