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Pray for Your Enemies and Those Who Persecute You: 12 Resources

pray for your enemies

Knowing how to pray for your enemies is key to every Christian life. Here’s what Jesus says in Matthew 5:43-45 (NIV): “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.”

When you’re discussing that challenging concept with teens, be prepared for lots of questions. Kids will ask about praying for your enemies and what that really means. For example: “Does that include people who persecute you? Do I need to pray for my enemies to succeed and thrive or just to change? Is it enough to just pray for your enemies? Or do you also need to love your enemies and befriend them?”

Before tackling this tough topic, prepare by studying God’s Word and reviewing Bible lessons and other resources. Be ready with specific tips about how to pray for your enemies. To help, we’ve assembled some options below, including sample prayers, quotes, and Bible verses.

12 Resources: Pray for Your Enemies

1. Four Ways to Help You Pray for Your Enemies

The biblical reflections on this site explain that Jesus set the ultimate example of praying for your enemies. Next, discover the role that this type of prayer (and love) plays in Christian discipleship.

2. Why God Tells You to Pray for Your Enemies

After acknowledging the pain and trauma that enemies can cause, this site explores reasons behind God’s “pray for your enemies” command. One is the fact that God made all people in his image. Tip: Be sure to check out the impactful story at the end of this post!

3. A Powerful Assignment

This brief but meaningful post reminds readers that because God forgives us, we too are to forgive others. Plus, God empowers us to complete this often-daunting task.