We all, I am sure, have experience those that have sinned against us and/or more importantly sinned against God (since sin is a certainty, I write with confidence). I know that I have and do each day. Yet, mine is not to judge them for their actions, only to pray for them and their repentance.
“23Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you, and I will instruct you in the good and the right way.” – 1 Samuel 12:23 (ESV)
Samuel demonstrates here the actions we should be taking each day. Prayer for all in the interest of helping and not consciously sinning ourselves. Even though there are those that will and do sin against God, we are still responsible to guide them to what is right. When they choose to go against the LORD or even us, we should lift them up that they might be able to see for themselves the error in their actions and repent. We are not to disparage them, or talk down to them about their actions, but to lift them up in love and pray that God will work on their hearts to soften them to Him.
Out there it is too easy to give up on those that are lost. They may be lost today, but with our guidance and continued prayer for healing and repentance, they may be found. I can only pray for them and give them every chance to be found. I am to pray for all regardless of who they are or what they may have done.
What action have you witnessed that could use your prayer? Are you willing to pray for them, or are you writing them off? What if we simply prayed for all regardless and allowed God to work?
Trevor's Thoughts 