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Tuesday, February 3 — Praying for the One You Resist

Scripture: Matthew 5:43–48; Luke 6:27–31

Jesus doesn’t say “like your enemies.” He says “pray for them.” Prayer is often the first place love becomes possible. Not because it changes them—but because it changes us.

Praying for someone you disagree with doesn’t mean you approve of their actions or beliefs. It means you refuse to let bitterness define you. Prayer loosens the grip of anger and reminds us that every person is still held by God.

At first, these prayers may feel forced or awkward. That’s okay. Jesus never said love would feel easy. He said it would be faithful.

Over time, prayer shifts our posture from reaction to compassion—even when disagreement remains.

Reflection Question:
Who is hardest for you to pray for right now?

One Practice for Today:
Pray one simple sentence for someone you disagree with: “God, bring good into their life.”

Prayer:
God, help me pray even when I don’t feel loving. Let prayer open my heart where resentment has taken root. Amen.