Christ's Incredible Love         August 1, 2010

But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your
Father in heaven.  Matthew 5:44–45

Is someone making your life miserable? Driving you crazy? Keeping you from some simple goals and
plans you have for your life? If so, what is your response to that person? Do you complain to others
about that person’s unfairness? Or do you pray for him or her?

It’s not in our love for the lovable that we demonstrate our faith. It’s in our response to those who are
difficult. One of the ways to lose the joy of salvation is to focus on the faults of someone who feels like
an enemy. But we can maintain and restore joy by loving the unlovable person through intercessory
prayer. Don’t just ask God to make that person start treating you better; ask God to change him or her on
the inside—and to use you to minister in that person’s life. That’s not an easy prayer to pray. But the
reward for truly loving as Christ loves is incredible. It may not be a physical or monetary reward, but what
greater gift can we receive than the gift of joy?

PRAYER: My Lord, I lay aside my own legitimate complaints and frustrations right now in order to bless
and pray for those who act against me. Thank You for allowing me to experience You more fully in my life
as I mediate for others. Amen
Black Canyon Community Church
SonShine Learning Center
Black Canyon City, Arizona

Prayer
with
Diana